Formula 1 Bahrain Test Shows Mercedes and McLaren Strong, Red Bull Faces Issues

Mercedes and McLaren showed strong performance in Bahrain F1 testing, while Red Bull faced unexpected challenges. This is a big change from last year's dominance.
By Newsroom | Formula 1, Bahrain |

Formula 1's initial pre-season tests have concluded, offering teams a crucial glimpse into their readiness for the upcoming season. The intense testing periods, particularly in Bahrain, have brought forth a mix of promising performances and evident challenges for several teams. As the sport prepares for its opening races, an analysis of these early results suggests a shifting landscape among the constructors.

Early Indicators of Team Fortunes

Formula 1 pre-season testing serves as a vital prelude to the competitive season, providing teams with essential data on car performance and reliability. The recent tests in Bahrain have highlighted which teams may have found a strong footing and which are facing immediate hurdles.

Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing? - 1

  • The conclusion of these early sessions indicates a dynamic new season ahead.

  • Teams have been assessing new car designs and technical approaches.

  • The performances observed offer initial clues about potential front-runners and those needing to catch up.

Teams Positioned as Early Front-Runners

Several teams have demonstrated encouraging signs during the initial testing phases, suggesting they are well-prepared for the season's start.

Mercedes' Strong Showing

Mercedes has been frequently cited as a team demonstrating significant potential.

Read More: Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari Struggles: Why He's Not Getting Podium Finishes in 2025

Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing? - 2

  • Early reliability was a key point for Mercedes.

  • A strong final day of testing has positioned them as genuine contenders.

  • Their performance has been described as a much-needed validation for the team.

McLaren's Consistent Pace

McLaren has also emerged as a strong performer, with their car showing both speed and dependability.

  • Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri reportedly looked strong during race simulations.

  • The MCL39 demonstrated extreme reliability over the three days of testing.

  • One analysis suggests McLaren could be a logical pick for a title contender based on testing performance.

Ferrari's Quiet Efficiency

Ferrari has completed a substantial number of laps, indicating a solid and efficient testing period.

Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing? - 3

  • The team logged 421 laps across the three days of testing.

  • This high lap count suggests a quietly effective and productive test for Ferrari.

  • Concerns about Ferrari prior to the tests have been addressed, in part, by their performance.

Teams Facing Notable Challenges

Conversely, some teams have encountered difficulties or have shown performance that raises questions about their immediate competitiveness.

Aston Martin's Struggles

Aston Martin, embarking on a new partnership, appears to be facing a significant challenge.

Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing? - 4

  • Aston Martin is described as having a considerable amount of catching up to do.

  • The full extent of their difficulties became apparent during testing.

  • Their situation suggests a potential disadvantage as the season begins.

Red Bull's Unsettled Performance

Despite Max Verstappen's skill, Red Bull's car did not appear entirely comfortable during the tests.

  • Even the fastest drivers reportedly experienced instability.

  • Max Verstappen was observed correcting slides during his fast laps.

  • This suggests potential underlying issues with the car's balance or handling.

Other Noteworthy Observations

  • Alpine: Has shown a marked improvement compared to the previous year, indicating a positive turnaround.

  • Williams: Also appears to have had a quietly efficient test, completing a good number of laps.

  • Sauber: While completing many laps, Sauber was only faster than Haas when focusing on longer runs, suggesting limitations in outright pace.

  • Cadillac: Reports indicate that their issues should not be overly interpreted, with warnings against reading too much into their problems.

Expert Perspectives and Analysis

The consensus among observers points to a competitive field, with clear distinctions emerging from the testing data.

"Mercedes is the team to beat after the F1 pre-season test, and in many ways, it is a stamp of approval that the squad desperately needed." - Sportskeeda

"Picking a title favourite after testing is tricky but the most logical answer has to be McLaren." - The Race

"Red Bull and Audi: Across both Red Bull and Racing Bulls machinery, the new powertrain completed hundreds of laps without major drama while delivering eye catching top speed performance." - Total Motorsport

  • The split among engine suppliers into Mercedes versus "the rest" (Ferrari, Honda, Red Bull, Audi) is a notable observation.

  • The new era of Formula 1 has begun, with many questions being answered, yet new ones may arise.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The initial pre-season testing has provided valuable, albeit early, insights into the 2025 Formula 1 season. Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari appear to have built strong foundations, positioning them as credible contenders. In contrast, Aston Martin faces a significant rebuilding task, and Red Bull's performance, while not alarming, suggests areas for improvement. The rapid progression and adaptability of these teams will be critical as the season commences, with the first race offering a clearer, real-world performance benchmark.

Read More: Aston Martin testing stopped by Honda engine problems in Bahrain

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Formula 1 teams looked best in the Bahrain pre-season test?
Mercedes and McLaren showed strong and reliable performance in the early tests in Bahrain. They completed many laps and looked fast, suggesting they could be strong contenders for the season.
Q: Did Red Bull perform well in the Bahrain F1 pre-season test?
Red Bull's car did not seem fully stable during the Bahrain tests. Even their top driver, Max Verstappen, was seen making corrections during fast laps, which suggests the car might have balance issues.
Q: What challenges did Aston Martin face in the Bahrain F1 pre-season test?
Aston Martin seems to have a lot of work to do after the Bahrain tests. Their difficulties were clear during the sessions, and they might start the season at a disadvantage.
Q: How did Ferrari do in the Formula 1 Bahrain pre-season test?
Ferrari had a productive test in Bahrain, completing a high number of laps, 421 in total. This suggests their car is reliable and they had an efficient testing period.
Q: What other teams showed improvement or had quiet tests in Bahrain?
Alpine showed clear improvement compared to last year. Williams also had a quiet but efficient test, completing a good number of laps.