P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It was like watching a completely different formula. That’s how startling the difference between watching the 11 Formula 1 cars on the first day of Bahrain testing and the last was
The difference between watching the 11 Formula 1 cars on the first day of Bahrain testing and the last was startling, not only in outright pace but also in the poise of the cars on track and the comfort of the drivers behind the wheel.
Max Verstappen’s aggressive downshifts stood out against the tentative performances of others, showcasing the advancements of Red Bull Powertrains and Verstappen’s driving ability.
Over the course of testing, improvements were seen in various teams, with the Audi engine notably evolving and appearing more refined by the end of testing.
Calibrating gearbox and power unit settings was a key objective, with an emphasis on maximizing harvesting under braking under the new regulations.
Despite initial concerns raised by the messy spectacle in Bahrain, the improved agility and nimbleness of the 2026 F1 cars were noticeable, along with the drivers’ significant improvements as they acclimated to the new driving style.
