Formula 1 pre-season testing wrapped up after the final session in Bahrain, with the 2026 season opener at Melbourne’s Albert Park now less than two weeks away.
Engine Power Debate Heats Up
New regulations have sparked intense discussion over the strongest power units among Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Ferrari and Mercedes lead the pack, according to industry consensus.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella identifies them as the “teams to beat.” Mercedes driver George Russell praises Red Bull’s Ford engines as “pretty scary” and frontrunners.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen pushes back, stating that “any good team with a Mercedes engine will do well.” This covers McLaren, Alpine, and Williams.
Mercedes Bolsters Driver Lineup
Mercedes moves first post-testing by signing Theo Pourchaire as their development driver. The former Formula 2 champion joins three years after his FIA feeder series triumph, following unsuccessful bids for an F1 seat.
