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Ferrari Reports Productive Bahrain Test as Rivals Question Mercedes’ True Pace

Rival drivers suspect Mercedes are concealing speed during pre-season running.

Overview

  • Lewis Hamilton said Ferrari completed extensive mileage in Bahrain and made useful ‘discoveries’ about the SF-26.
  • Charles Leclerc asserted that Mercedes are hiding a “massive amount” of performance, a view echoed by Max Verstappen’s claim of untapped power.
  • George Russell described Bahrain as a reality check for Mercedes, saying reliability and performance looked worse than in Barcelona.
  • Mercedes encountered public technical issues during the test, with Kimi Antonelli’s sessions disrupted on consecutive days.
  • Red Bull were described by Russell as the team to beat after strong showings in both Barcelona and Bahrain, while Aston Martin conceded they have significant pace to find.