Formula 1 pre-season testing concludes after the final session in Bahrain, with the 2026 season opener at Melbourne’s Albert Park now less than two weeks away.

Engine Performance Debate Heats Up

New regulations prompt intense discussion on the strongest power units among Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Experts position Ferrari and Mercedes as the frontrunners.

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella labels them the “teams to beat.” George Russell praises Red Bull’s Ford engines as “pretty scary” and predicts they lead the pack.

Max Verstappen dismisses the hype, stating, “any good team with a Mercedes engine will do well.” He highlights teams like McLaren, Alpine, and Williams benefiting from Mercedes power.

Mercedes Bolsters Driver Lineup

Mercedes acts swiftly post-testing by signing Theo Pourchaire as their development driver. The former Formula 2 champion joins three years after his FIA feeder series triumph, following unsuccessful bids for an F1 seat.

Fans anticipate how these developments shape the upcoming Grand Prix weekend.