Charles Leclerc Sets the Pace in Final Morning of Formula 1 2025 Pre-Season Testing
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc concluded the final morning of Formula 1 2025 pre-season testing in Bahrain with the quickest lap time, just a slender 0.077 seconds ahead of rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The session began with intense competition as Leclerc and Antonelli traded places atop the timing boards, creating a captivating early spectacle. Antonelli initially led with a strong performance, but Leclerc soon reclaimed the top spot with a 1m30.861s lap. Despite Antonelli narrowing the gap to just 0.027 seconds with a 1m30.888s effort, Leclerc’s performance only improved. He later set a 1m30.811s lap on C3 tires, which remained unchallenged throughout the session.
Wind Challenges and Red Flag Interruption
The session, which started with a flurry of lap times, was not without its interruptions. A brief red flag was called within the final hour when a pane of glass broke free from the race directors’ box and shattered in the pit lane. This unexpected event temporarily halted the proceedings, but the teams were quickly back on track after a 15-minute pause. The primary challenge for the drivers, however, was the increasing wind. Lando Norris, in particular, faced significant difficulties, struggling to keep his McLaren stable through the corners. The British driver went off track at Turn 4, reaching the service road, and had to abort a lap after a wide moment at Turn 13. Despite these issues, Norris managed to rally and secure the third fastest time, just 0.132 seconds behind Leclerc’s benchmark.
Max Verstappen Shakes Down New Red Bull Design
Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, had the Red Bull RB21 to himself for the session. He utilized this time to test a new nose cone design, which is expected to enhance the car’s aerodynamic performance. Verstappen’s efforts were rewarded with the fourth fastest time, though he was still four-tenths of a second off Leclerc’s pace. The solo session allowed Verstappen to focus on the nuances of the new design, providing valuable data for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season. His consistent performance and adaptability to the changing conditions were notable, demonstrating the strength and versatility of the Red Bull team.
Alpine’s Jack Doohan and Crosswind Troubles
Jack Doohan, driving for Alpine, came in fifth, just three hundredths of a second behind Verstappen. Doohan also faced challenges from the blustery conditions, losing control of his car on several occasions. The young driver’s resilience and ability to adapt to the tricky weather were commendable, as he managed to set a competitive time despite the difficulties. Alpine’s engineering team will undoubtedly use the data collected from Doohan’s session to fine-tune the car’s handling in windy conditions, ensuring they are well-prepared for any track environment.
Alex Albon and Lance Stroll Swap Sessions
Alex Albon, the experienced driver from Williams, clocked the sixth fastest time using the C2 tires, a choice that reflects a strategic approach to tire management and car setup. Meanwhile, Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso swapped sessions due to Stroll not feeling 100% fit. This switch allowed Alonso to complete his final pre-season preparations, finishing eighth in the session. Despite the change in plans, Alonso’s performance was steady, and his insight into the car’s capabilities will be invaluable for the team. Rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, mentored by Alonso, spent much of the morning in the garage due to a technical issue, limiting his track time to just 35 laps. The team will work tirelessly to resolve these issues and ensure Bortoleto is ready for the season.
Haas’ Oliver Bearman and Bodywork Woes
Oliver Bearman, the Haas rookie, rounded out the session at the bottom of the order. While it seemed that Bearman was holding back to conserve the team’s true potential, his session was also interrupted by shedding bodywork. The left-hand engine cover of his car suffered a delamination, causing the cooling louvres to snap away from the assembly. Additionally, a crack in the sidepod and flapping bodywork behind the rollhoop added to the technical woes. Despite these setbacks, Bearman’s ability to complete 73 laps—the highest number in the session—demonstrates his commitment and the team’s determination to gather as much data as possible before the season begins. Haas will need to address these issues promptly to ensure a smooth start to the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Final Thoughts
The final morning of pre-season testing in Bahrain provided a mix of competitive performances and technical challenges, highlighting the preparations and adjustments teams must make before the season kicks off. Leclerc’s dominance and Antonelli’s impressive debut set the tone, while the struggles of Norris and Bearman serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of Formula 1. Verstappen’s adaptability and Doohan’s resilience underlined the importance of both experience and talent. As the teams finalize their preparations, the data gathered from this session will be crucial in refining their cars and strategies. The 2025 Formula 1 season is set to be an exciting and closely contested affair, and these final test runs have given fans and teams alike a tantalizing glimpse of what to expect.
