Bahrain Pre-Season recap and updated betting odds for 2025 opener

The 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain concluded in dramatic fashion as Mercedes’ George Russell snatched the fastest lap from Max Verstappen in the final moments of the three-day event.

Russell’s blistering 1:29.545 lap on C3 tyres was enough to edge out the reigning World Champion by just 0.021 seconds, setting the stage for a thrilling season opener in Melbourne.

Red Bull’s Verstappen, despite showing strong pace throughout the final session, was ultimately denied the top spot in the closing minutes.

Williams’ Alex Albon, also impressive, secured third place, capping off a strong testing phase for the resurgent team.

The testing sessions also highlighted strong performances from McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Alpine’s Pierre Gasly, who finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, ended his test run in sixth place, showing solid adaptation to his new team but still finding his footing.

The Briton had topped the timesheets earlier in Day Two’s morning session before Williams’ Carlos Sainz bested him by just 0.031 seconds.

Bahrain Pre-Season Testing Fastest Laps

Aston Martin faced a challenging test with Lance Stroll feeling unwell, forcing Fernando Alonso to take over driving duties mid-session.

The veteran Spaniard returned to the track despite battling a cold, managing to put in crucial laps under the floodlights.

Meanwhile, Haas struggled with a disrupted morning session as a piece of their engine cover detached, though Esteban Ocon later recovered to complete over 100 laps.

Beyond individual performances, the mileage statistics provided intriguing insights.

Mercedes led the way with 458 total laps across three days, followed closely by Haas (457) and Racing Bulls (454), while Red Bull and Aston Martin lagged behind with just over 300 laps each due to various reliability issues.

Williams, buoyed by Sainz and Albon’s strong performances, completed a respectable 395 laps, positioning them well ahead of the season opener.

With the pre-season now complete, all eyes turn to Melbourne, where Formula 1 will officially commence its 2025 season from March 14-16.

Concluding Bahrain’s pre-season testing, top online bookmakers have shifted the odds in to Lando Norris’ favor.

Marantelli Bet has Norris currently at $2.70 after showing a snippet of the MCL39’s pace on day 1.

Whilst Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has drifted out to $4 with BetOnline after mediocre testing for Red Bull.

The grid appears more competitive than ever, with Williams emerging as a dark horse, Mercedes showing signs of resurgence, and Ferrari working to unlock its potential with Hamilton in red.

The battle between Russell and Verstappen in testing has set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season ahead.

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