season test ahead of Lando Norris and Max Verstappen

Formula 1 • February 20, 2026 • general

Key Points:

Charles Leclerc topped the final day of 2026 pre-season testing in Bahrain with a fastest lap time of 1m 31.992s, leading Lando Norris and Max Verstappen.
Aston Martin had a limited running on Friday due to a battery issue affecting Fernando Alonso's Thursday session, with Lance Stroll completing only six non-timed laps.
McLaren focused on car work in the morning, delaying Norris's track time until the afternoon, where he managed to secure second place overall.
Several drivers, including Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, completed extensive race simulations and long stints, with rookie Arvid Lindblad logging the highest lap count of 165.
Testing concludes ahead of the