Mercedes Emerge as Early Pace-Setters in 2026 F1 Testing Ahead of Bahrain

Mercedes has emerged as the early pace-setter in Formula 1's 2026 pre-season preparations, drawing attention across the paddock after a dominant performance during the Barcelona shakedown. With a total of 504 laps completed over three daysthe most of any teamthe highest tally reported, showcasing strong reliability and hinting at promising pace. Drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli showed strong performance indicators during limited on-track sessions.

The consensus among rival teams is that Mercedes has set a new benchmark early in the cycle. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella confirmed as much in a post-test interview, stating that Mercedes had definitely raised the bar. This sentiment has intensified speculation that Mercedess power unit might be the class-leading engine for 2026, a theory that would bolster McLarens title challenge since they are powered by Mercedes.

However, questions have emerged over a potential regulatory dispute surrounding the compression ratios of the new 2026 power units. Ferrari, Honda, and Audi claim that Mercedes and Red Bull may have exploited a loophole to exceed the intended compression ratio limits. FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis acknowledged the concerns, saying: We dont want to have controversies. We want people to be competing on the track, not in the courtroom or in the stewards room. Meanwhile, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff dismissed the complaints, telling rivals to get your s*** together and accused them of making excuses before you even started.

Astoundingly, while Ferrari recorded second-most laps, excitement around the team was subdued. Lewis Hamilton, entering his first season with the Scuderia, faced reliability issues that limited his running, raising concerns about their pace despite a strong chassis. Meanwhile, the 2026 season marks the debut of Adrian Neweys first full design for Aston Martin, with the AMR26 only partially tested in Barcelona. Williams, meanwhile, missed the Barcelona session entirely due to a failed crash test but will debut their FW48 in Bahrain with the trusted Mercedes power unit.

With pre-season testing now beginning in Bahrain, where live coverage and full media access will allow deeper analysis, the true 2026 pecking order will begin to take shape.