F1 truly launched its 2026 revolution this morning in Sakhir. New engine regulations, new energy management, new aerodynamic equations… and already very clear signals after the morning and early afternoon. Between an emerging hierarchy, a spectacular spin, and a red flag, this first day is anything but ordinary.
F1 Testing: Verstappen sets the pace from the morning
On the clock, it's Max Verstappen who hits first: 1'35''433. The Red Bull driver is ahead Oscar Piastri by 0,169 seconds. The message is clear: the RB-Ford 2026 is fast. The car feels stable in quick successions, even if Verstappen Locks the wheels on the first corner several times. Raw performance definitely there.
Behind, George Russell place Mercedes Benz Third, six tenths behind. The F1 W17 gives an impression of serenity: clean stints, few visible corrections, controlled energy management.
The morning was more eventful for Lewis HamiltonA wide exit at turn 1, then a complete 360° spin. F1The SF-26 feels twitchy at the front. Regardless of the setting chosen, the balance seems tricky. Hamilton finished fourth, but one second behind Verstappen. Classic Ferrari for sale advancing in disguise… or still searching for its bearings.
First red flag of the 2026 era: Franco Colapinto immobilizes its Alpine On track. More of a scare than anything serious, but precious time lost for the French team. In testing, reliability is just as important as performance.
Early afternoon : Norris in difficulty McLaren remains solid: Driver change after the break. Lando NorrisThe reigning world champion takes the wheel of his F1 car. And immediately, several moments of uncertainty. Lateral gusts, shifting balance: the MCL39 is not easy to handle.
Nothing alarming, but McLaren seems to require finesse. Visually, however, the F1 car remains firmly planted on the track, as Mercedes Benz et RedBull.
First laps, first truths for the 2026 version of F1.
Red Bull displays the speed
Mercedes Benz mastery, McLaren consistency. Classic Ferrari for saleShe, however, still needs to control her nerves. The times remain unclear… but the signs are already crystal clear.
Morning standings:
