F1 preseason testing set to kick off in Bahrain from February 26-28

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari debut highlights F1 preseason testing in Bahrain.

Preseason testing for the 2025 Formula 1 season is set to take center stage in Bahrain from February 26 to 28. Across these three crucial days, teams will get the first opportunity to put their new cars through their paces on the Bahrain International Circuit.

For the first time since 2020, Bahrain will not be the host of the season-opening grand prix. This honor will go to Melbourne, Australia, where the first race of the 2025 season is scheduled for March 16.

This upcoming preseason test is particularly significant as it will mark Lewis Hamilton's debut in his new Ferrari, following his highly anticipated move from Mercedes over the winter.

Bahrain has become a staple for preseason testing, having hosted it six times since 2009. The circuit is favored for its warm and consistent weather, providing ideal conditions for early-season preparations. During the test, each team is permitted to run one car and typically divides the track time equally between their drivers.

While preseason testing offers the first glimpse of the competitive order, lap times can often be misleading. Teams focus on specific run plans and objectives, which means the true pace of the cars might not be fully evident.

Formula 1 will return to Bahrain in April for the fourth round of the season. The Bahrain International Circuit will also be the middle race venue in a triple-header, sandwiched between the races in Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Hamilton shared his excitement about the new chapter with Ferrari, stating, "It's a fresh start and a new challenge. Testing will be crucial in understanding the car and getting everything ready for Melbourne."

The preseason test promises to set the tone for what could be an exhilarating 2025 season as teams and drivers fine-tune their preparations ahead of the opener in Australia.

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