P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes was the first 2026 Formula 1 car to take to the track during the opening day of the Barcelona pre-season test
Mercedes was the first car to hit the track during the 2026 Formula 1 pre-season test in Barcelona, which is currently held without media or fans present, allowing limited information to be shared. Seven out of the 11 teams went out within the first hour of testing, with Mercedes leading the way followed by Audi and Alpine. Several teams chose not to run on the first day, with Mercedes notably completing significantly more laps than others. The test provides valuable insights for fans, especially considering restricted access due to the closed nature of the event. The day saw drivers like Kimi Antonelli pushing the Mercedes car to its limit, showcasing early performance potential. Additionally, teams like Haas and Audi, who had prior shakedowns, also put in solid early running, while others, including Alpine, faced minor challenges on track.
