The 2025 Formula 1 season is set to begin with a three-day pre-season test at the Bahrain International Circuit. This marks the first opportunity for teams and drivers to fine-tune their new cars ahead of what promises to be an exciting season. Here’s everything you need to know about the testing schedule, drivers, and key details.
Bahrain Replaces Barcelona as F1 Testing Hub
Bahrain has become Formula 1’s preferred location for winter testing, replacing Barcelona. The Middle Eastern circuit offers more reliable weather conditions and a central location, making it easier for teams to ship their cars to the season-opening race.
In previous years, teams would stay in Bahrain for the first Grand Prix of the season. However, due to Ramadan, the 2025 calendar has been adjusted. The Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne will now serve as the season opener on March 16, following the Bahrain test.
Testing Format and Schedule
The three-day test in Bahrain will run from Wednesday, February 26, to Friday, February 28. Each team will run one car per day, meaning drivers will have limited track time—just one and a half days each. This is particularly challenging for the large rookie class of 2025, who will need to make the most of their limited opportunities.
Each day is divided into two sessions:
- Morning Session: 07:00 to 11:00 GMT
- Afternoon Session: 12:00 to 16:00 GMT (following a one-hour lunch break)
Driver Line-Up for Bahrain Testing
Here’s the confirmed driver line-up for the Bahrain test, with more names to be added as teams announce their schedules:
Red Bull Racing
- Wednesday, February 26: Max Verstappen (AM), Liam Lawson (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: Max Verstappen
- Friday, February 28: Liam Lawson
Mercedes
- Wednesday, February 26: Andrea Kimi Antonelli (AM), George Russell (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: George Russell (AM), Andrea Kimi Antonelli (PM)
- Friday, February 28: Andrea Kimi Antonelli (AM), George Russell (PM)
Alpine
- Wednesday, February 26: Jack Doohan (AM), Pierre Gasly (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: Pierre Gasly (AM), Jack Doohan (PM)
- Friday, February 28: Jack Doohan (AM), Pierre Gasly (PM)
Haas
- Wednesday, February 26: Oliver Bearman (AM), Esteban Ocon (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: Esteban Ocon (AM), Oliver Bearman (PM)
- Friday, February 28: Oliver Bearman (AM), Esteban Ocon (PM)
Racing Bulls
- Wednesday, February 26: Yuki Tsunoda (AM), Isack Hadjar (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: Yuki Tsunoda (AM), Isack Hadjar (PM)
- Friday, February 28: Isack Hadjar (AM), Yuki Tsunoda (PM)
Williams
- Wednesday, February 26: Alex Albon (AM), Carlos Sainz (PM)
- Thursday, February 27: Carlos Sainz
- Friday, February 28: Alex Albon
McLaren, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Sauber
Testing schedules for these teams have not yet been announced. Updates will be added as soon as they are available.
Key Drivers to Watch
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull): The defending world champion will be among the first to hit the track on Wednesday morning.
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes): The highly-touted rookie will share driving duties with George Russell.
- Oliver Bearman (Haas): Another rookie making his mark in F1, Bearman will split testing time with Esteban Ocon.
- Jack Doohan (Alpine): The Australian rookie will alternate with Pierre Gasly.
What’s at Stake?
Pre-season testing is crucial for teams to identify and resolve any issues with their new cars. With limited track time, every lap counts, especially for rookies who need to adapt quickly to their new machinery.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
Following the Bahrain test, the F1 circus will head to Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix on March 16. The 2025 season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent years, with a mix of seasoned champions and exciting new talent.