The 2026 Formula 1 season is just a fortnight away, as teams take to the Bahrain International Circuit for one last pre-season test. Given a wealth of new engine and chassis regulations have been rolled out ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, teams and drivers alike will relish in the opportunity to get to grips with their cars for the new season.

Following a five-day private format in Barcelona, three days of testing will take place in Bahrain this week, before the Australian GP lands in Melbourne between March 6 and March 8. Max Verstappen will not be present on Wednesday, as Red Bull opt to deploy Isack Hadjar in the cockpit the duration. It comes off the back of a fiery rant from the Dutch-Belgian, in which, he described the new cars as "like Formula E on steroids."

Elsewhere, defending champion Lando Norris of McLaren emerged first in the testing, eager to make the most of the testing as he looks for further success in 2026. Stay tuned as Express Sport brings you all of the latest news and updates from the second-phase of F1 testing...

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