Formula 1 Pre-Season Testing Begins in Bahrain as Teams Unveil Major Aerodynamic Upgrades for 2026

Formula 1's highly anticipated 2026 season moved one step closer to reality today as all ten teams took to the Bahrain International Circuit for the opening day of pre-season testing. The three-day test session marks the first official running of the new aerodynamic regulations that promise to deliver closer racing and more overtaking opportunities throughout the championship.

Red Bull Racing unveiled their RB22 challenger with significant modifications to their rear wing design, while Mercedes showcased a dramatically different sidepod concept that has caught the attention of rival teams. Ferrari's SF-26 features a striking new livery alongside technical innovations focused on maximizing ground effect downforce under the revised regulations.

World Champion Max Verstappen completed 127 laps in the morning session, posting the fastest time with a 1:29.834 on soft compound tires. His pace was immediately impressive, suggesting Red Bull's dominance from previous seasons may continue into the new regulatory era. "The car feels completely different but in a very positive way," Verstappen commented after his opening stint.

Lewis Hamilton, driving for Mercedes in his 18th season, encountered minor hydraulic issues that limited his running to 89 laps. Despite the setbacks, Hamilton expressed optimism about the W15's potential. "We've made significant strides with the power unit integration," Hamilton noted during the lunch break.

Charles Leclerc put Ferrari through their paces with 134 laps, the highest tally of the day, while testing both short and long-run pace scenarios. The Monégasque driver reported excellent balance through Bahrain's challenging middle sector, suggesting Ferrari has addressed their historical cornering weaknesses.

Testing continues tomorrow with all drivers rotating duties as teams gather crucial data ahead of the season opener scheduled for March 1st in Bahrain.