Formula 1 teams are set for the second and final week of preseason testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, starting Wednesday, ahead of the 2026 season opener in Australia. With just three days left, squads focus on ironing out issues with new engines and aerodynamics while navigating an engine regulation controversy. Upgrades from multiple teams, including Ferrari's major package, will debut as relative performance becomes clearer.
The Bahrain International Circuit hosts the crucial final three days of 2026 F1 preseason testing, beginning Wednesday, February 26, 2026. This session follows initial tests in Barcelona and the first Bahrain outing, where teams accumulated significant mileage to understand the new power units emphasizing energy harvesting and deployment. Most teams exceeded 1000 kilometers in the prior Bahrain test, with Ferrari leading at 4322.1 km, followed by Mercedes at 3864.0 km and Haas at 3931.6 km.
Mercedes topped the fastest lap times from the first Bahrain test with 1m 33.669s by Andrea Kimi Antonelli, while Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton set 1m 34.209s. The session highlights challenges like dropping into first gear for corners, leading to lock-ups and skittish handling, as noted by observers. Max Verstappen excelled in energy recovery for Red Bull Racing, outpacing teammate Isack Hadjar by over 0.8 seconds.
Off-track, a political battle brews over engine rules. Mercedes is accused of exploiting a loophole to exceed the 16:1 compression ratio, gaining low single-digit horsepower. Red Bull, Ferrari, Audi, and Honda demand the FIA close it at Wednesday's meeting, with engines freezing March 1. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff warned teams would be "screwed" if rules change. Ferrari defends its engine design, featuring a smaller turbocharger, against proposed start procedure alterations raised by McLaren for safety.
Upgrades are expected across the grid, per Ferrari principal Fred Vasseur. Ferrari introduces a B-spec car with a race-ready aero pack and new power unit, having run one unit for 14 grand prix distances without degradation. Audi debuted revised sidepods and front wing, with principal Jonathan Wheatley stating, "I'm encouraged, we have a bold approach to these technical regulations." Aston Martin struggles, with Lance Stroll estimating a four-second deficit and Fernando Alonso citing the Honda power unit as weak.
Midfield teams like Haas aim to consolidate positions, while Alpine seeks reliability to challenge for podiums. Cadillac surprises as a competent newcomer. By Friday, low-fuel runs will reveal early form ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.
