George Russell Fastest in Final Bahrain Morning Session

Formula 1, Sportrik Media – George Russell became the first driver to break into the 1m33s bracket on the final morning of the opening 2026 Formula 1 pre-season test in Bahrain, placing Mercedes-AMG Petronas at the top of the timesheets.

Russell posted a 1m33.918, finishing nearly three tenths of a second clear of Lewis Hamilton in the Scuderia Ferrari. Hamilton’s session marked a more positive showing after expressing concerns earlier in the week regarding the behaviour of the new-generation power unit and energy management demands.

Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing secured third quickest despite continuing to voice criticism of the 2026 regulations. His pace indicated competitive underlying performance as teams continue adapting to the revised energy deployment framework.

Fourth and fifth positions were occupied by Oliver Bearman for Haas F1 Team and Oscar Piastri for McLaren Racing, respectively, with all 11 teams completing meaningful running during the session.

The final morning of the first test reflected a clear increase in outright pace as teams refined aerodynamic balance and energy deployment strategies under the 2026 regulations. With one additional Bahrain test remaining before the season opener, the competitive picture is beginning to take shape, though performance variables such as fuel load and engine modes remain key unknowns.