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The final preparations are underway as Formula 1 teams converge at the Bahrain International Circuit for the second and final pre-season test, kicking off today, Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Following a productive, though somewhat opaque, three-day test last week, teams are eager to maximize track time before the season opener. Mercedes driver George Russell has already signaled his team’s intent, setting a quick pace early in the session and offering a glimpse of the performance potential of the new W17. The focus this week is not just on speed, but also on reliability and data collection as teams refine their setups for the unique demands of the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Last week’s test saw Williams complete the most laps, demonstrating strong operational efficiency, while Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli topped the timing sheets with the fastest lap. However, the true pecking order remains unclear, with teams closely guarding their performance levels. The 2026 regulations have introduced significant changes, and teams are still grappling with understanding how to optimize their cars within the new framework. Jolyon Palmer recently warned drivers that they will require to adjust their driving styles to accommodate the new rules, particularly regarding track limits as observed during Antonelli’s running last week.

Antonelli Unharmed After Road Accident

Despite a concerning incident last weekend, Kimi Antonelli is confirmed to be participating in the Bahrain test. The Mercedes driver was involved in a road accident near his home in Serravalle, San Marino, impacting a guardrail with his Mercedes AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ “Motorsport Collectors Edition” – a limited-edition vehicle of which only 200 were produced. Fortunately, Antonelli was unharmed, and Mercedes confirmed his participation in the test. Motorsport.com reported that the police attended the scene after being called by Antonelli himself.

The incident occurred just before Antonelli’s departure for Bahrain, but Mercedes has stated it will not impact his testing program. He is scheduled to drive the W17 on Wednesday afternoon, Thursday morning, and Friday afternoon. The team had recently highlighted the delivery of the supercar to Antonelli, showcasing its unique Petronas livery and enhanced aerodynamic features, powered by a 612hp twin-turbo V8 engine.

Testing Priorities and Competitive Landscape

This week’s test is particularly significant as it will be fully broadcast, offering fans a comprehensive view of the preparations. Unlike the Barcelona shakedown and the first Bahrain test, which offered limited live footage, this session promises complete coverage. While Williams demonstrated strong reliability last week, and Antonelli set the fastest time, the competitive landscape remains fluid. Aston Martin appears to have the most work ahead of them, while Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren are engaged in a tight battle for supremacy. Sports Illustrated confirms Antonelli is entering his second season in Formula 1.

During the first Bahrain test, Kimi Antonelli and George Russell locked out the top two positions on the timesheets for Mercedes, demonstrating the potential of the Silver Arrows. Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, also completed a full day of running, focusing on longer runs. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar also contributed to a busy testing schedule. The teams are continuing to refine their 2026 challengers, with some drivers experiencing issues with track limits and car control.

What to Expect This Week

The focus for the remainder of the week will be on maximizing track time, gathering data, and fine-tuning car setups. Teams will be closely monitoring tire performance, aerodynamic efficiency, and engine reliability. The regulatory controversy surrounding engine compression ratios, involving Mercedes, remains a point of discussion, with ongoing talks to locate a resolution before the Australian Grand Prix. The second Bahrain test represents the final opportunity for teams to validate their preparations before the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as the testing unfolds. The insights gained this week will undoubtedly shape the competitive landscape of the upcoming season. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!