LECLERC FASTEST IN SECOND DAY OF F1 PRE-SEASON TESTING IN BAHRAIN
Charles Leclerc of Ferrari was fastest in the second day of Formula One pre-season testing in Bahrain on Thursday.
The Monegasque set the pace with a best time of 1 minute 34.273 seconds, beating reigning champion Lando Norris of McLaren by 0.511 seconds.
Oliver Bearman of Haas was third, followed by the Mercedes of George Russell.
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari didn't take part in the second day of testing.
Drivers are still getting used to brand new cars as massive regulation changes, including overhauled aerodynamics and revised power units, came into force for the 2026 season.
Audi, who are making their F1 debut as a constructor this year, were sixth and 10th with Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg respectively.
Cadillac, the other debutants and who joined the field as the 11th team, had Valtteri Bottas in eighth and Sergio Perez in 15th.
Drivers and teams will regroup again on Friday for the final day of testing this week, before resuming activities next week. The season starts at the Australian Grand Prix on March 8.