F1 Pre-Season Test
George Russell leads Bahrain F1 pre-season test by 0.01 seconds
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George Russell set the fastest time on the first day of Formula 1's second 2026 pre-season test in Bahrain, edging out McLaren's Oscar Piastri by just 0.01 seconds. Mercedes completed the most laps amid technical troubles for several teams including Ferrari, Red Bull, Aston Martin and Cadillac. A simulated start procedure at the end of the day proceeded without issues.
Laurent Mekies, team principal of Red Bull Racing, will not attend the first Formula 1 pre-season test in Bahrain due to a minor routine medical procedure. The 48-year-old Frenchman is expected to remain in close contact with the team and join them for the second test later in February. This absence follows a successful private testing session for the team's drivers earlier this month.