FIA announce F1 testing CHANGE after major track error…read more
The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing commenced at the Bahrain International Circuit on Wednesday, February 26, under unexpected circumstances. A significant power outage disrupted the afternoon session, leading the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) to extend the day’s testing to compensate for lost time.
Power Outage Disrupts Testing
The interruption occurred during the afternoon session when a power cut, attributed to an external substation failure, plunged the circuit into darkness. This unforeseen event prompted officials to halt the session with a red flag, as teams and drivers were left in uncertainty. The outage not only affected the track but also the garages, leaving teams to operate under challenging conditions. Images from the scene depicted team members working with flashlights, highlighting the severity of the situation.
In response to the disruption, the FIA announced an extension of the day’s testing by one hour, allowing teams to recover the lost time. This adjustment was crucial for drivers who had not participated in the morning session, including prominent figures like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. The revised schedule extended the session until 5 PM GMT, ensuring that teams could maximize their on-track activities despite the earlier setback.
Driver Performances Amidst Challenges
Despite the interruption, several drivers managed to showcase impressive performances. Lando Norris of McLaren emerged as the fastest driver of the day, setting a commendable pace. Prior to the power outage, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc had topped the timesheets, indicating the competitiveness of the session. In the morning, Mercedes’ rookie driver, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, led the session, marking a promising start to his Formula 1 career.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari after his move from Mercedes, completed 70 laps during the morning session and secured the fifth-fastest time. Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been a focal point of the pre-season, with many anticipating how the seasoned driver will adapt to his new team and machinery.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who did not participate in the morning session, faced the challenge of limited track time due to the afternoon’s disruption. With teammate Liam Lawson scheduled to drive on Thursday, Verstappen’s primary opportunity to familiarize himself with the RB21 will be on Friday. This condensed schedule places added pressure on the Dutch driver to optimize his performance during the available sessions.
Team Dynamics and Preparations
The pre-season testing period is a critical time for teams to fine-tune their cars and assess performance ahead of the season opener. For Ferrari, the pairing of Hamilton and Leclerc represents a blend of experience and youthful vigor. Both drivers are sharing testing duties over the three days, with Hamilton taking the wheel in the mornings and Leclerc in the afternoons. This strategy allows both drivers to provide feedback and contribute to the car’s development collaboratively.
Mercedes, introducing rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli alongside George Russell, is navigating the integration of new talent into their lineup. Antonelli’s performance in leading the morning session suggests a promising future, while Russell’s experience will be invaluable in guiding the team’s development efforts.
Red Bull’s approach involves giving Liam Lawson the opportunity to gather data on Thursday, with Verstappen focusing on a comprehensive testing program on Friday. This division of responsibilities aims to maximize data collection and ensure both drivers are adequately prepared for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
The Bahrain pre-season test spans three days, concluding on Friday, February 28. Teams are utilizing this period to evaluate their cars’ performance, reliability, and to implement any necessary adjustments before the season commences. The 2025 Formula 1 season is set to begin with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 16. With several driver movements, including Hamilton’s high-profile switch to Ferrari and the introduction of new talents like Antonelli, the upcoming season promises to be both exciting and unpredictable.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly observing the testing sessions, seeking insights into team performances and potential championship contenders. While pre-season testing times are not always indicative of race performance, they provide a valuable glimpse into the competitive landscape of the forthcoming season.
In summary, the first day of the 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain was marked by unexpected challenges, notably the significant power outage that disrupted the afternoon session. The FIA’s prompt decision to extend the testing time underscored their commitment to ensuring teams and drivers have adequate opportunities to prepare. As testing progresses, the focus remains on optimizing car performance, integrating new drivers, and setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.
