Verstappen tops first morning of Bahrain opening test

Max Verstappen dominated the opening session of 2026 pre-season testing in Bahrain, setting the fastest lap with a 1m 35.433s. The Red Bull driver led much of the morning, finishing 0.169s clear of McLaren's Oscar Piastri, who took second. Mercedes' George Russell secured third, followed by Lewis Hamilton in fourth and Esteban Ocon (Haas) in fifth. Franco Colapinto's Alpine caused the session's only red flag. Teams used the opportunity to test their new 2026 challengers, with many sporting aero rakes and drivers experiencing initial grip levels. Testing continues after a lunch break, with most teams swapping drivers for the afternoon session.