Formula 1’s official tests in Bahrain kick off preparations for 2026 with variable weather, high expectations around Ferrari and Williams, and names like Sainz and Hamilton looking to make the most of every day on track.
Formula 1 has already kicked off the first official testing session of the 2026 season at the Bahrain International Circuit, where teams are beginning to gather key information ahead of the start of the championship. Over three days, the squads will work on aerodynamic adjustments, race simulations, and reliability evaluations under a renewed technical rule set that introduces significant changes to the philosophy of the cars and the management of the power units.
In this scenario, drivers like Carlos Sainz are at the center of attention after their first laps with Williams, in an adaptation process that also influences the paddock’s overall outlook. The Spaniard’s presence in a new project carries weight because his experience can provide important benchmarks for a team looking to establish itself in the midfield and take a step forward in competitiveness. Each stint represents an opportunity to fine-tune setup details and strengthen communication between driver and engineers.
At the same time, Ferrari continues developing its program with Lewis Hamilton as one of the year’s standout figures. The Briton is entering a different stage of his career, and these tests are crucial for refining his understanding of the Italian car before official competition begins. Integration with the technical team, simulator work, and adaptation to the car’s dynamic behavior are all part of a process that requires precision and consistency.
Beyond the names, one factor shaping the sessions is the weather forecast. Although Bahrain typically offers stable conditions, forecasts indicate variable temperatures and shifting winds that could alter track conditions throughout the day. This forces teams to carefully plan when to carry out long runs or specific simulations, also taking into account the natural evolution of the asphalt as rubber builds up on the racing line.
Preseason testing is not focused solely on lap times, but on data collection and analyzing the car’s behavior. Each session allows teams to assess how the new cars respond under braking, through high-speed corners, and in tire degradation, factors that will be decisive over a long and demanding calendar where consistency often makes the difference.
For experienced drivers like Hamilton or Sainz, these days also serve a strategic role: translating sensations into technical feedback so engineers can adjust configurations and better understand the package’s true potential. Their experience across different teams enables them to provide useful comparisons regarding stability, traction, and overall balance.
Comparisons with previous tests held in Barcelona are inevitable, as Bahrain features a different layout that places greater demands on traction and thermal management. That is why the readings from Sakhir can serve as a more comprehensive reference before the start of the World Championship and help define development priorities.
As the days progress, the focus will be on consistency, reliability, and each team’s ability to evolve. In a year where regulatory changes could open up the competition and reduce historical gaps, these tests represent the first real step in defining trends heading into the 2026 season.