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Russell Leads F1 Testing in Bahrain Ahead of New Season
20 Feb
Summary
- George Russell set the fastest time on the first day of F1 testing.
- New regulations have introduced smaller, lighter cars with enhanced electrical systems.
- Drivers are adapting to significant rule changes impacting car performance.
Formula 1's final pre-season testing event commenced in Bahrain on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, with Mercedes driver George Russell setting the fastest lap. Russell's time of 1:33.459 in the afternoon session narrowly edged out McLaren's Oscar Piastri, who had earlier recorded 1:33.739. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished third, just behind Piastri.
This testing period is crucial for teams to acclimatize to significant regulation changes, which have resulted in smaller, lighter cars. These new designs incorporate enhanced electrical systems to boost speed. Drivers like Piastri and Lando Norris acknowledged the productive initial running but highlighted the ongoing process of understanding the new machinery.
The FIA has confirmed that initial feedback on the new regulations is still being gathered. Topics such as aerodynamics, power units, and tire performance are under review. The governing body indicated that major regulatory changes would not be made prematurely due to the risk of instability before the season opener in Australia next month.
