SAKHIR, Bahrain – Mercedes driver George Russell set the fastest time on the first day of the final Formula 1 pre-season test at the Bahrain International Circuit on Wednesday, clocking a lap of 1:33.459. However, it was a sentiment shared by several drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, that the latest generation of F1 cars are proving more enjoyable to drive than their predecessors. The test, crucial ahead of the season opener in Australia on March 8, saw teams fine-tuning their 2026 challengers.
The pace-setting lap from Russell edged out McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by just 0.010 seconds, demonstrating the incredibly tight competition already emerging. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc rounded out the top three, 0.280 seconds behind Russell. While lap times are always subject to caveats regarding fuel loads and engine settings, the Bahrain test is providing a clearer picture of the pecking order as teams prepare for the new season. The focus isn’t solely on outright speed, though; drivers are consistently noting improvements in the handling and overall sense of the cars.
Hamilton Praises Improved Driveability
Now driving for Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton echoed the positive feedback regarding the new cars. While he finished seventh fastest with a time of 1:34.300, Hamilton emphasized the increased enjoyment he’s experiencing behind the wheel. “These cars are just more fun to drive,” Hamilton reportedly said, according to ESPN. “There’s more mechanical grip, and they’re less sensitive to the aero wake. It allows you to really attack the corners.”
This sentiment is a significant shift from the early iterations of the current ground-effect regulations, which were introduced in 2022. Those cars, while representing a step forward in aerodynamic philosophy, were often described as unpredictable and difficult to manage, particularly in close-quarters racing. The 2026 cars, benefiting from further refinement and development, appear to address many of those concerns.
Testing Times and Key Observations
The first day of testing saw a variety of programs undertaken by the ten teams. Mercedes completed a total of 188 laps, with both Russell and Kimi Antonelli (fifth fastest, 1:34.158) contributing to the data collection. Red Bull, with Isack Hadjar at the wheel, encountered some early setbacks, losing track time while addressing an issue with the RB22, ultimately finishing sixth with a time of 1:34.260. Max Verstappen is scheduled to drive for Red Bull all day on Thursday.
Several teams utilized flow-vis paint and aerodynamic rakes to gather detailed information about airflow over their cars. A red flag was briefly deployed when Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) went off track at Turn 11, but the session quickly resumed. The cooler evening conditions offered more representative running, allowing teams to assess tire performance and aerodynamic balance in temperatures closer to those expected during the race.
Here’s a look at the top ten drivers from Wednesday’s session:
| Position | Driver | Team | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | George Russell | Mercedes | 1:33.459 |
| 2 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 1:33.469 |
| 3 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 1:33.739 |
| 4 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 1:34.052 |
| 5 | Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 1:34.158 |
| 6 | Isack Hadjar | Red Bull | 1:34.260 |
| 7 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 1:34.300 |
| 8 | Carlos Sainz | Williams | 1:35.098 |
| 9 | Franco Colapinto | Alpine | 1:35.244 |
| 10 | Gabriel Bortoleto | Audi | 1:35.253 |
What’s Next for F1 Teams?
The Bahrain test continues for two more days, providing teams with valuable data to further refine their car setups. Focus will likely shift towards longer runs and race simulations to assess tire degradation and overall performance consistency. The Australian Grand Prix, the first race of the 2026 season, is scheduled for March 6-8, leaving teams with limited time to implement any significant changes based on their findings in Bahrain. The improved driveability of the 2026 cars, as highlighted by Hamilton and others, suggests a promising season of closer competition and more exciting racing.
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