Formula 1 pre-season testing concludes after the final session in Bahrain, with the season opener at Melbourne’s Albert Park now less than two weeks away.
Engine Performance Debate Intensifies
New regulations prompt discussions on the strongest power units among Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Experts view Ferrari and Mercedes as the frontrunners.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella identifies them as the “teams to beat.” Mercedes driver George Russell describes Red Bull’s Ford engines as “pretty scary” and positions them at the forefront.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen dismisses the hype, stating that “any good team with a Mercedes engine will do well.” He highlights McLaren, Alpine, and Williams as beneficiaries.
Mercedes Secures New Development Driver
Mercedes acts swiftly post-testing by signing Theo Pourchaire as their latest development driver. The former Formula 2 champion joins the program three years after his FIA feeder series triumph, following unsuccessful bids for an F1 seat.
