New era begins: F1 giants face historic debutant in Bahrain test

Formula 1 testing for the 2026 season has commenced in Bahrain, with Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri joined on track by the highly anticipated debut of the Cadillac team.

The Sakhir circuit roared to life as the sport prepares for a seismic shift in regulations.

Sky Sports’ Craig Slater and Ted Kravitz were on the ground to witness the initial running of the next generation of machinery.

While established names logged their first miles, all eyes were fixated on the newcomer in the paddock.

Historic debut on desert tarmac

The American manufacturer’s entry marks a significant expansion of the grid.

General Motors’ arrival has been the subject of intense speculation and excitement throughout the winter break.

Seeing the car physically on track represents a major milestone for the sport’s global growth.

Heavyweights shake off the rust

Max Verstappen wasted little time in putting his Red Bull through its paces.

The Dutchman is looking to assert dominance early as the technical landscape shifts beneath the teams.

Oscar Piastri also featured prominently, continuing his rapid ascent with McLaren.

Early stages of testing are rarely about outright speed, but the psychological battle has already begun.