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F1 pre-season testing 2024: When it is, can I watch it and more
The new F1 season is approaching with teams heading to Bahrain for pre-season testing, where fans will get a glimpse of the competitive field. Pre-season testing will take place from February 21-23 at the Bahrain International Circuit, just a week before the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix. Many questions arise: will Red Bull continue to dominate? Can Max Verstappen secure his fourth consecutive world championship? Will McLaren close the gap on Red Bull after a strong 2023 season? Two teams have new names this year, with AlphaTauri rebranding as RB and Sauber shedding its Alfa Romeo guise. This pre-season testing allows teams to gather crucial data in hot, dry conditions and saves on travel costs, aligning with F1’s commitment to be more environmentally friendly. Additionally, Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari in 2025 has been a major off-season news story, with more driver transfers expected as contracts expire at the end of 2024. The specific schedule for drivers during pre-season testing has not been revealed yet.