Pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit has resumed as the 2026 Formula 1 campaign fast approaches. Teams and drivers have been increasingly busy this week, putting their new cars through their paces as they look to vie for success at the Australian Grand Prix in a matter of weeks.

It's the second testing phase of pre-season, following on from a five-day private format in Barcelona earlier this year. While Max Verstappen was absent from the Red Bull cockpit on Wednesday, with Isack Hadjar instead running laps on opening day, the five time world champion has now returned to the track as he gets to grips with his car. Elsewhere, Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton has defended this season's vehicles which are powered by a 50:50 ratio of an electric and combustable engine, after claims that the new set-up is dangerous.

Meanwhile, Toto Wolff and Mercedes have learned that they will be able to use their controversial 2026 engines until at the least the summer break after an FIA ruling, despite rivals claiming that they should not be permitted to do so.

Keep up to date with all of the latest updates from F1 pre-season testing below...

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