Norris Tops Timesheets as Verstappen Dominates Mileage on F1 Testing Day 1

Lando Norris set the fastest lap time for McLaren on the opening day of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain, but reigning champion Max Verstappen stole the show by completing a massive 136 laps for Red Bull, signaling both speed and formidable early reliability for the new era of cars.

Why it matters:

The first day of testing is less about the headline lap times and more about gathering crucial data and proving reliability. Verstappen's marathon run for Red Bull is a significant early statement about the durability of their new Ford-powered car, while Norris's quick lap confirms McLaren's potential to challenge at the front. These initial signs set the narrative for the three-day test and the season ahead.

The details:

• McLaren's Pace: Lando Norris delivered the day's best time of 1m34.669s in the afternoon on the C2 tire compound, edging out Verstappen. Teammate Oscar Piastri handled the morning session, completing a smooth and productive day for the team.
• Red Bull's Stamina: Max Verstappen's focus was on mileage, completing 136 laps—far more than any other driver. His best time was good enough for second, but the relentless running suggests the RB22 is a solid and reliable foundation to build on.
• Mixed Fortunes Elsewhere: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc slotted into third, showing promising pace. Mercedes had a more difficult day, with George Russell sixth and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli's running cut short by technical issues, limiting him to just 29 laps.
• Midfield Glimpses: Haas's Esteban Ocon impressed with the fourth-fastest time, while Alpine, Audi, and Williams began their data-gathering processes.
• Technical Hiccups: The day featured two red flags (for Alpine's Franco Colapinto and Audi's Nico Hülkenberg) and limited running for Aston Martin's Lance Stroll and Racing Bulls' Arvid Lindblad, highlighting the typical teething problems of a new car.

What's next:

Testing continues on Thursday and Friday, with the focus shifting to performance runs, race simulations, and understanding the new tires. Key drivers like Fernando Alonso and Oliver Bearman are scheduled to take the wheel. While Day 1 times are not definitive, the early patterns of reliability and single-lap speed will give teams their first real benchmarks as they refine their 2026 challengers for the season opener in two weeks.