Analysis of the Bahrain Tests: Who Comes into the Season Strongest?

With the three days of pre-season testing in Bahrain coming to an end, each team experimented with very different setups, making it difficult to draw clear conclusions, by not knowing these settings in detail. Also, the unexpected weather conditions generated some doubts in the results shown. However, despite this uncertainty, it was possible to identify some small conclusions about the performance of each team:

Photo: Mclaren

The current constructors' champion, McLaren, was very strong in these test sessions, something unusual in previous years, where they often faced various complications. This year they arrive with a car that is as competitive as last season's, and even stronger. Their race pace has been impressive, lapping up to a second faster than the rest of the teams. Also they showed little tire degradation and their drivers are confident. However, on the last day they had some difficulties with the balance of the rear of the car, a problem that seems solvable.

Despite this, in an interview with Sky Sports, Andrea Stella, team principal of Mclaren, pointed out that they were not spared with their car and that there were still aspects to analyze. Although they were satisfied with the work done, they acknowledged that the fight this year will be very close and that the true panorama will be defined in the first race of the season.

On the other hand, Red Bull had a more complicated preseason. Although they carried out a large number of tests, they covered few kilometers compared to other teams. Furthermore, they admitted that the improvements introduced on the last day of testing did not give the expected results and that they are not completely satisfied with the performance of the car. Despite these setbacks, the team remains a strong contender for the season.

For its part, Ferrari has also shown great performance and remains one of the main favorites, largely thanks to its powerful driver duo, with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, who has integrated into the team solidly. A key aspect to keep in mind is that the Italian team has made the most changes to its car compared to last season, which could make a big difference in its performance this year.

Mercedes was the team that did the most kilometers during the tests and was quite solid with both drivers. Despite having one of the rookies of the season, Kimi Antonelli showed great potential, although he still makes some mistakes due to his inexperience. The German team had its best preseason in recent years and they seem comfortable and excited for the new season.

According to Thomas Maher (FIA accreditated journalist, working for planetf1.com), the order of the first places, from the people in the paddock is:

1. Mclaren

2. Mercedes

3. Redbull

4. Ferrari

5. Williams

6. Alpine

Turning to Williams and Alpine, both teams have shown great progress in recent months. They stood out with good race pace and competitive single lap times, which indicates important progress in their development.

At Williams, the arrival of Carlos Sainz has had a very positive impact. His experience and knowledge have benefited the team, and his determination to take them to the top has been noticed.

On the Alpine side, the good results in the final stretch of last season have given them the necessary impetus for great development and strengthening for this year. Very intense battles are expected in the middle of the grid, and it is possible that both Williams and Alpine will surprise with outstanding performances throughout the season.

On the other hand, on the negative side, Aston Martin had a difficult preseason, with low mileage and rhythms that were not entirely encouraging. Despite this, Fernando Alonso mentioned in a press conference prior to the tests that this season's car feels better than last year's, although there are still many areas to improve.

Haas, for its part, managed to complete a large number of laps, but without standing out too much in terms of performance.

Racing Bulls continue to struggle, showing no signs of significant improvement, while Sauber continues to work on its development ahead of its final season before becoming Audi. However, so far, these teams have not shown clear signs of progress and will face a difficult road in the season ahead.

It is important to note that these interpretations are not definitive, since, as mentioned above, the specific plans and configurations used by each team during the tests are not precisely known. Furthermore, it is possible that many teams have not shown their full potential, choosing to hide some strategic advances for the start of the season.