F1 2026 Pre-Season: Top Lap Times and Total Laps Revealed
Pre-season testing for the 2026 Formula 1 season has concluded, with teams amassing crucial data ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in just two weeks. While the insights drawn from lap times and mileage can be tentative, they provide an engaging glimpse into the upcoming season.
Top Lap Times from 2026 Pre-Season Testing
During the second Bahrain test, notable performances emerged, particularly from Ferrari and Mercedes. The fastest lap times were as follows:
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari): 1m31.992s
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes): 1m32.803s
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren): 1m32.861s
- Lando Norris (McLaren): 1m32.871s
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull): 1m33.109s
The lap time gap to Leclerc’s record is outlined below:
| Driver | Lap Time | Gap to Leader |
|---|---|---|
| Kimi Antonelli | 1m32.803s | +0.811s |
| Oscar Piastri | 1m32.861s | +0.869s |
| Lando Norris | 1m32.871s | +0.879s |
| Max Verstappen | 1m33.109s | +1.117s |
Combined Testing Mileage for Teams
In terms of total testing mileage during this pre-season, the following teams recorded the highest laps:
- Mercedes: 432 laps (2337 km)
- Racing Bulls: 407 laps (2202 km)
- Haas: 404 laps (2186 km)
- McLaren: 395 laps (2137 km)
- Williams: 368 laps (1991 km)
Driver and Engine Performance
Focusing on individual driver performance, the following drivers stood out:
- Arvid Lindblad: 240 laps (1298 km)
- George Russell: 235 laps (1271 km)
- Oscar Piastri: 222 laps (1201 km)
Additionally, the engine performances during testing yielded interesting insights:
| Engine | Total Laps | Total Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Mercedes | 1554 laps | 8410 km |
| Ferrari | 994 laps | 5379 km |
| RBPT | 736 laps | 3983 km |
Conclusion
The pre-season testing data provides a clear indication of the competitive landscape heading into the 2026 Formula 1 season. As teams prepare for the Australian Grand Prix, the stage is set for an exciting start to the championship.
