The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing is set to take place from February 26 to 28 at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). While the first day is closed to the public, fans can attend the final two days to watch their favorite drivers hit the track. Beyond the on-track action, there’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy, making it a great event for motorsport fans and families.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Bahrain F1 testing schedule, driver lineup, and tickets.

What Happens During F1 Pre-Season Testing?

F1 testing is a crucial part of the season preparation. Bahrain is a prime location for this thanks to its mix of long straights, high-speed corners, and warm weather, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the cars. Teams use these days to:

  • Test new car designs and setups
  • Gather performance data
  • Fine-tune reliability and aerodynamics before the first race

Each team can only run one car at a time, with a total of 24 hours of track time across the three days. This is also the first chance for fans to see the new cars in action before the season kicks off at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16.

Driver Lineup for Bahrain F1 Testing Bahrain

Max Verstappen, the four-time reigning champion, will be one of the first to take the track on February 26, though his session is not open to the public. Fans can still follow live updates via F1 TV or sports bars streaming the coverage.

While not all teams have confirmed their exact schedules, here’s the current lineup for each day.

Thursday, February 27:

  • Red Bull Racing: Max Verstappen
  • Mercedes: George Russell (day session), Kimi Antonelli (evening session)
  • Alpine: Pierre Gasly (day session), Jack Doohan (evening session)
  • Haas: Esteban Ocon (day session), Oliver Bearman (evening session)
  • Racing Bulls: Yuki Tsunoda (day session), Isack Hadjar (evening session)
  • Williams: Carlos Sainz
  • McLaren, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Sauber: TBC

Friday, February 28:

  • Red Bull Racing: Liam Lawson
  • Mercedes: Kimi Antonelli (day session), George Russell (evening session)
  • Alpine: Jack Doohan (day session), Pierre Gasly (evening session)
  • Haas: Oliver Bearman (day session), Esteban Ocon (evening session)
  • Racing Bulls: Isack Hadjar (day session), Yuki Tsunoda (evening session)
  • Williams: Alex Albon
  • McLaren, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Sauber: TBC

2025 Bahrain F1 Testing Schedule

The test sessions will run across two days, with teams getting track time in two sessions each day. Gates open in the morning, giving fans access to both sessions. Here’s the full schedule and timings for both days.

 

Tickets for Bahrain F1 Testing and Off-Track Entertainment

Fans attending the Bahrain F1 testing can expect more than just racing. For those who want a hands-on experience, there will be racing simulators and reaction-time challenges like the Batak game. The event also features live performances, including:

  • Circle Arts Drummers & Colour Drum
  • Jesters and roaming performers
  • BMX rider Viki Gomez

Tickets for Bahrain F1 pre-season testing are still available, priced at BD 10 per day for adults and BD 5 per day for children. The Bahrain Grand Prix follows on April 13, making this test a great way to get an early look at the action.