As the dust settles on the F1 2025 pre-season testing in Bahrain, the motorsport world is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix. But, the question on everyone’s lips is – who emerged victorious and who were left licking their wounds?
Topping the charts was Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, who put in three days of stellar performance at the Bahrain International Circuit. The event provided all 10 teams with invaluable data, a critical foundation for perfecting their set-ups throughout the season and fine-tuning the synergy between the racetrack and the wind tunnel.
McLaren stood out as a winner, with Lando Norris setting the pace on the first day. While lap times at this stage are not necessarily indicative of the season’s trajectory, McLaren’s performance sends a potent warning to competitors. Norris’s impressive long run on day 2, outpacing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, suggests that McLaren is on track for a strong season. Despite a close shave with the barriers on the final day, team principal Andrea Stella’s assurance of a well-executed plan has quelled any lingering apprehensions.
On the other side of the spectrum, Red Bull and their driver, Liam Lawson, faced challenges. Although Lawson’s performance was not particularly poor, a spin on the first day and a subsequent engine water pressure issue cost him and the team crucial time. Coupled with unfavorable weather conditions, Lawson’s preparations for his full-time F1 debut in Australia have been less than ideal. However, the situation is far from dire.
Mercedes, with Andrea Kimi Antonelli at the wheel, also emerged as a clear winner. They set the fastest time on the first morning, maintaining a consistent performance throughout the test. Although minor technical issues on the final day slightly marred the team’s otherwise smooth sailing, their overall performance was commendable. This marked a significant improvement over their past struggles with a problematic car.
Unfortunately, Haas faced a rougher ride. A bodywork failure and floor damage resulted in lost track time over the three-day test. Rookie driver Oliver Bearman bore the brunt of these mishaps, losing crucial on-track time. Despite these setbacks, the overall pace of the car was satisfactory, with no immediate cause for alarm.
Williams emerged stronger from the pre-season tests, with Sainz fitting in seamlessly and Alex Albon performing well. The team now boasts two robust drivers and a reliable car, marking a significant improvement over previous seasons.
However, the Bahrain International Circuit itself faced several hitches. A power outage on day 1, inclement weather on day 2, and bizarre incidents on the final day resulted in multiple stoppages. As the circuit prepares to host the Grand Prix, these organizational issues must be ironed out to ensure a flawless event.
As the countdown to the Australian Grand Prix begins, the results of the pre-season tests have set the stage for an exhilarating season. The teams will now look to build on their successes and rectify their shortcomings, all in pursuit of the ultimate prize in motorsport.