F1 Pre-Season Testing: Mercedes Dominates as Teams Finalize Bahrain Prep

Mercedes continued to set the pace on the final day of the first 2026 pre-season test in Barcelona, with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell topping the timesheets. As teams concluded their initial running, Williams confirmed its readiness for the upcoming Bahrain test, highlighting the intense preparation underway across the grid.

Why it matters:

Pre-season testing offers the first tangible glimpse of a team's winter progress and potential pecking order. Mercedes' strong showing, particularly from rookie Kimi Antonelli, sends an early signal of intent. For teams like Williams, simply being ready on time is a critical first hurdle, making their confirmation a significant milestone ahead of the new regulatory era.

The details:

• Mercedes on Top: Kimi Antonelli set the fastest unofficial time of the test with a 1:17.362, just ahead of teammate George Russell (1:17.580). This one-two finish for the team indicates a strong baseline for the W17.
• McLaren in the Mix: Lando Norris was third fastest, over eight-tenths behind Antonelli, suggesting McLaren remains in the competitive conversation.
• Midfield Activity: Alpine, with Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly, and Haas's Oliver Bearman filled the next positions, completing valuable mileage for their respective programs.
• Williams Update: Team Principal James Vowles confirmed the team is ready for the Bahrain test, following the completion of necessary checks. The team will also conduct a promotional filming day shakedown and continue Virtual Track Tests (VTT) in Grove.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to the official pre-season test in Bahrain, the final opportunity for teams to refine their cars before the competitive lights go out. All eyes will be on whether Mercedes can translate its Barcelona speed into consistent performance and if any teams have hidden upgrades up their sleeve. The real answers, however, will only come at the season-opening Grand Prix.