The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season test concluded at the Bahrain International Circuit today, marking a pivotal moment as teams prepare for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix on March 16. The final day of testing saw significant performances from multiple teams, with various drivers taking to the track to maximize their preparation.
After two days of turbulent weather and unexpected interruptions — including a circuit-wide power outage — the teams were eager to capitalize on the last opportunity to fine-tune their machines. The backdrop of this year’s test was intense: the previous season's champions McLaren were again favored, but how would their performance measure up against the competition?
Today’s morning session began at 7:00 AM GMT, featuring drivers like Lando Norris of McLaren and Max Verstappen of Red Bull racing. This year’s testing saw each team run just one car per day, making it imperative for each driver to achieve their set goals quickly.
Teams such as Williams, led by Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, were hopeful as they began the final session. Sainz, who had shown promise on previous days, commented, “Overall, it was a positive first day for the team, especially considering some of the track stoppages we had.” He managed 68 laps, illustrating the continual improvement the team seeks from their new FW47 car. Albon echoed his sentiments, calling their day “okay,” though he noted, “We still have things we need to address.”
Notably, today also saw Fernando Alonso taking on driving duties for Aston Martin, having replaced Lance Stroll who was feeling unwell. Stroll is expected to return to the car later today. Meanwhile, the weather was remarkably cooperative today—a stark change from the rain and cool temperatures earlier this testing session—allowing drivers to perform optimally in dry, sunny conditions.
Oscar Piastri of McLaren remarked on the previous day's unexpected weather, which had added complications, stating, “I don’t think anyone expected rain in Bahrain, so it was kind of surprising.” His outlook remained optimistic as he looked forward to getting more laps during the final day.
Villainously, several teams were engaged in strategic maneuvers often referred to as “glory runs,” where teams attempt to set impressive lap times to showcase potential. Such efforts are more about perception than reality during testing periods, where competitive lap times are not officially recorded. The essence of these runs lies within boosting morale, demonstrating progress to sponsors, or simply testing limits where fuel levels are low enough to maximize speed.
Midway through the day, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari emerged as the leader on the timing sheets with impressive lap times. Having started their campaign aiming to close the gap to the leading McLaren team, Leclerc commented, “We have been pushing hard to improve and assess our performance. Today is all about gathering information before heading down under.”
While McLaren focused on defending their title, there were constant murmurs within the paddock about other teams striving to break their stronghold. Teams like Aston Martin and Alpine aimed to make significant strides with their vehicles, competing relentlessly for their place at the upper echelons of the grid.
With excitement building toward the first race, many questions still linger. Would McLaren maintain their dominance? How would performance differentials shake out among the teams? With pre-season testing concluded, the F1 community eagerly anticipates the answers to these questions as they gear up for Melbourne's season opener.
Today’s testing finally draws to a close with predictions running wild and the focus swiftly shifting to the race weekend at Albert Park. Fans and teams alike hold their breath as they prepare for what promises to be another thrilling season of Formula 1 racing.
One thing is certain, as anticipation mounts: whether rookie drivers can stamp their mark, or if veterans can reclaim glory, this season’s storyline is just about to ignite on the Australian grid.