Image Credits: Reuters.
Formula 1’s pre-season preparations officially got underway in Bahrain on Wednesday, marking the start of a crucial testing phase ahead of the 2026 season. On the first morning of running in Bahrain, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen set the benchmark with a fastest lap of 1 minute 35.433 seconds. This system gives drivers access to extra electrical energy, potentially creating more overtaking opportunities on track, according to Formula 1. The engines now operate on an approximately 50-50 split between petrol and electric power.
Over the next two weeks, teams will spend a total of six days on track, with each day offering around eight hours of running time to evaluate their new machinery, reported AP.
Toyota Urban Cruiser Ebella Drive Review: Too late or still game? | TOI Auto Another notable update is the introduction of an “overtake” button. Meanwhile, the previously known maximum power button has been rebranded as the “Boost” button. Formula 1 says this move makes the technology “more road relevant” and aligns the sport more closely with modern automotive trends.
Drivers can activate it when they are within one second of the car ahead. Power units have also undergone a major transformation.