Formula 1 kicks off with the long-awaited pre-season testing at the Sakhir International Circuit, Bahrain, from 26 to 28 February 2025. This event will be crucial for teams looking to optimise their cars to the maximum and prepare the ground for a season that promises to be intense and full of emotions.
The Bahrain circuit is once again the epicentre of these winter tests, marking the final stage before the official start of the season on March 16 at the Australian Grand Prix. This year's three-day test will allow teams and drivers to evaluate not only the reliability of their vehicles, but also to discover Key areas that need attention before the first races of the championship.
F1 2025 Bahrain Test Schedule
Testing at the Sakhir circuit will be split into two daily sessions, offering eight hours of on-track action. Local times are from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00, although for Spanish viewers the sessions will start at 08:00 and continue after the break at 13:00, concluding at 17:00.
En Spain, the timetables are the following:
- | - | |
---|---|---|
Daytime | Session | Time |
Wednesday February 26 | Morning | 8:00 - 12:00 PM |
Wednesday February 26 | Afternoon | 13:00 - 17:00 PM |
Thursday February 27 | Morning | 8:00 - 11:00 PM |
Thursday February 27 | Afternoon | 12:00 - 17:00 PM |
Friday February 28 | Morning | 8:00 - 12:00 PM |
Friday February 28 | Afternoon | 13:00 - 17:00 PM |
How to follow pre-season testing live?
For F1 fans in Spain, the tests will be broadcast in full on DAZN, the official Formula 1 platform in the country. By subscribing to this service, you will be able to enjoy every minute of the sessions live. In addition, F1TV will also offer coverage in different regions, allowing fans to follow the events from anywhere in the world.
In addition to the broadcast, numerous specialized portals such as Motorsport.com will offer real-time tracking, detailed analysis, interviews with the protagonists and daily summaries. It is an excellent opportunity to get the first impressions on the performance of the new cars.
Who will take part in the Bahrain tests?
As is tradition, the 20 regular drivers from the 10 teams on the grid will be present at these pre-season tests. Although the teams have yet to confirm the distribution of the sessions among their drivers, it will be the first opportunity to see some of the new 2025 line-ups in action.
Among the most notable new features are the Liam Lawson's debut as Max Verstappen's teammate at Red Bull and the arrival of Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, where he will share a team with Charles Leclerc. Also notable are the additions of young talents such as Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes and Gabriel Bortoleto at Sauber.
What are teams looking for in testing?
These tests are essential for the teams to evaluate the capabilities of their new cars and resolve any problems before the start of the season. With 2025 being the final year of the current technical regulations, teams already have a solid foundation in terms of reliability. This will allow them to focus on perfecting details such as aerodynamics, engine settings and long run performance.
In addition, different data collected During these sessions, adjustments and optimisations will be key to making the difference on the track. Although lap times are not always indicative of actual performance, the teams are attentive to every detail to maximise their competitiveness.
How sandbagging affects the interpretation of results
An interesting aspect of pre-season testing is the strategy of 'sandbagging'. Many teams choose not to show their full potential during these days in order to keep their true performance a secret. This means that lap times do not always reflect the pecking order we will see in official races.
Variables such as the fuel loads, engine maps and tyres used are factors that influence times and make direct comparisons between teams difficult. Fans should therefore take the results with caution.
What other activities are expected before the tests?
Prior to testing in Bahrain, several teams will carry out filming days known as 'filming days'. Although these sessions are limited in mileage and tire use, they offer an opportunity to verify that all systems are working properly and capture promotional images of the new cars.
For example, teams such as Williams and Racing Bulls are expected to use these days to show progress on their projects before the official start of testing. In many cases, these private tests include special decorations or camouflage to generate expectations among followers.
With the action fast approaching, the coming days promise to be packed with new developments. Pre-season testing is not only a chance for teams to assess their performances, but also for fans to start to get a taste of what's to come in 2025. With new signings, young talent and revamped strategies, it looks set to be a season not to be missed.