The final phase of Formula 1 pre-season preparation is now underway in Bahrain, where teams have begun the last official three-day test before the new campaign starts. It follows an earlier shakedown in Barcelona, where teams were allowed limited running for up to three days, and the first Bahrain test held last week.

This final test represents the last significant chance for teams to solve technical issues, improve reliability and better understand their new cars under the 2026 regulations. Engineers will focus on long runs, race simulations and system checks, but performance work is also expected to increase.

As programmes become more representative, lap times should provide a clearer indication of the competitive order, although teams traditionally still keep some performance in reserve. Even so, observers expect more relevant times compared to earlier winter running.

Fans can follow every minute of the test live via F1 TV, which is broadcasting the sessions in full. Track action runs each day from 08:00 to 17:00 CET, with a scheduled lunch break in the middle of the day.

With the Australian Grand Prix on 8 March, the Bahrain test is the final preparation before the 2026 season starts.