Lando Norris Tops Max Verstappen in 2026 F1 Bahrain Test Day One

Lando Norris delivered a strong performance during the first day of the 2026 F1 Bahrain pre-season testing. The McLaren driver clocked a fastest lap time of 1m34.669s, edging out Red Bull’s Max Verstappen by 0.129 seconds.

Day One Highlights

While Norris shone in the afternoon session, Oscar Piastri set an impressive morning time of 1m35.602s, completing 54 laps. Norris added 58 laps in the afternoon, achieving a total that exceeds a full race distance at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Despite the promising lap times, the day was characterized by a challenging track surface and gusty winds. Many drivers, including Verstappen, struggled with off-track excursions, particularly at Turn 10, due to varying braking approaches and tailwind effects.

Top Performers

• Lando Norris – McLaren MCL40: 1m34.669s, 58 laps
• Max Verstappen – Red Bull RB22: 1m34.798s, 136 laps
• Charles Leclerc – Ferrari SF-26: 1m35.190s, 80 laps
• Esteban Ocon – Haas VF-26: 1m35.578s, 115 laps
• Oscar Piastri – McLaren MCL40: 1m35.602s, 54 laps

Notable Incidents

Max Verstappen led the morning session with a time of 1m35.433s. He also became the first driver to complete over 100 laps, ultimately ending the day with 136 laps. His performance showcased Red Bull’s capability to maintain electrical power effectively over consecutive laps.

Other teams had mixed results. Aston Martin faced difficulties, with Lance Stroll managing only 36 laps after a data anomaly hindered their new Honda power unit. Meanwhile, Williams’ Carlos Sainz ran a commendable 77 laps, providing a positive start for the team.

Team Performance Overview

The first day of F1 pre-season testing highlighted the competitive nature of the teams. As teams refine their cars and strategies, the anticipation for the upcoming season continues to grow.

For more updates on the 2026 F1 pre-season testing, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.