F1 Testing LIVE: Current updates from Test Two; could a leading team rise in Bahrain?
Mercedes, McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull will compete for dominance during the final week of Formula 1 2026 preseason testing, and you can watch it all live here with ESPN.
The initial week of preseason testing in Bahrain saw drivers expressing concerns regarding the new cars, along with red flags and suggestions for regulatory changes.
As is typical in testing, it is nearly impossible to evaluate form and speed based on lap times as the newly designed cars accumulate mileage in the early days, but drivers have clearly shared their opinions on the new technology and regulations.
Lewis Hamilton remarked that fans would require a university degree to comprehend the new regulations. Similarly, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella indicated that testing has revealed three areas where rule modifications are necessary to enhance safety and has put forth proposals.
Max Verstappen expressed that the cars resemble “Formula E on steroids,” a remark that elicited a response from Formula E chief Jeff Dodds, who was also in the Middle East, prompting him to visit Jeddah and test a Formula E vehicle.
Lando Norris responded to Verstappen’s comment by stating that he actually found it quite enjoyable, adding that Verstappen could “retire” if he wishes.
Lastly, after much anticipation surrounding Adrian Newey’s Aston Martin team, their week seemed to be somewhat underwhelming. However, two-time world champion Fernando Alonso cautioned that “it’s a matter of time” before the team begins to excel.
Stay updated with all the latest news and analysis from the second week of testing below.
– F1 testing: Who has recorded the fastest times, most laps?
– F1 testing: When and how to watch live, complete Bahrain preseason schedule
– Who’s leading in 2026? New regulations are complicating the hierarchy — and the drivers
Source: espn.com
