Formula 1 teams are set for the second and final three-day pre-season test at the Bahrain International Circuit from February 18 to 20. This session follows last week's testing and focuses on refining new cars under updated aerodynamic and power unit regulations. The event will provide insights into team performances ahead of the Australian Grand Prix on March 8.
The 2026 Formula 1 pre-season testing enters its final phase with the second Bahrain test, running from Wednesday, February 18, to Friday, February 20. All 11 teams will field one car each day, with sessions scheduled from 10am to 2pm and 3pm to 7pm local time (AST, GMT+3). This extended testing period accommodates the significant regulation changes, including entirely new vehicles designed under fresh aerodynamic and power unit rules.
Last week, teams addressed initial issues at the same venue, Bahrain International Circuit. This week's activities shift toward extracting maximum pace from the packages, potentially revealing more about the competitive order as the season approaches. Motorsport.com reports that line-ups will be split between morning and afternoon sessions for many teams, with updates ongoing as confirmations arrive.
RacingNews365 highlights the crucial nature of these three days for data collection before the opener. Following the test, the F1 calendar moves to Australia for the first race on March 8. No specific driver schedules are finalized in the available details, but coverage will include live timing and paddock insights.
The testing underscores the challenges of the new era, with teams ironing out gremlins from redesigned cars.
