2026 Sakhir F1 testing: Kimi Antonelli adopts a more aggressive strategy than Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes and Ferrari show contrasting form in Bahrain F1 testing.

Mercedes vs Ferrari: Bahrain testing hints at early edge for Charles Leclerc as Lewis Hamilton faces adaptation phase

The emerging rivalry between Mercedes and Ferrari is shaping up to be one of the defining storylines of the 2026 Formula 1 season, based on the first indicators from pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. While it remains far too early to make definitive predictions about pole position for the Australian Grand Prix, early performance data suggests that last year’s top four teams have once again established themselves at the front of the competitive order.

Lewis Hamilton initially grabbed headlines by setting the benchmark during Ferrari’s Barcelona shakedown, signaling early promise for the SF-26. However, once official pre-season testing began in Bahrain, it was Andrea Kimi Antonelli who attracted significant attention after delivering a series of assertive runs for Mercedes. The young Italian’s confident approach contrasted with the more measured adaptation phase currently being experienced by Lewis Hamilton.

Compared to the spotlight surrounding Mercedes and Red Bull, Ferrari’s preparations have unfolded with less fanfare, while McLaren has also demonstrated consistent long-run pace. Mercedes driver George Russell has suggested that Ferrari could hold an advantage during race starts, a factor that may prove decisive given the turbo lag characteristics observed with the new-generation 2026 power units. Strong launches off the line could become a critical performance differentiator under the revised regulations.

Trackside analysis from respected journalists Scott Mitchell-Malm and Edd Straw provided further insight into Ferrari’s early performance profile. After closely observing Lewis Hamilton throughout the Bahrain test sessions, they suggested that Charles Leclerc appears more immediately comfortable with the SF-26’s balance and responsiveness. According to their assessment, the Monegasque has handled the car’s rear-end sensitivity with greater composure, while Lewis Hamilton has experienced more visible instability during certain phases of cornering.

Mitchell-Malm indicated that Lewis Hamilton showed signs of increased sliding and occasional front-end locking, particularly when pushing through technical sections of the circuit. In contrast, Andrea Kimi Antonelli demonstrated a notably aggressive and decisive driving style during his longer Mercedes race simulation. Antonelli reportedly attacked Turn 11 with confidence, maximizing curb usage and committing fully on corner entry without hesitation. Meanwhile, as Lewis Hamilton extended his stint, subtle rear-end movement and mid-corner instability became more apparent in the Ferrari.

Additional observations suggested that Lando Norris appeared slightly more at ease in the McLaren compared to Oscar Piastri, though without detailed knowledge of fuel loads, engine modes, and run programs, such comparisons remain speculative.

SF-26 balance and early technical concerns

Edd Straw further analyzed Ferrari’s performance, noting that Lewis Hamilton’s SF-26 looked somewhat unpredictable through the high-speed sequence of Turns 6, 7, and 8. Gusting crosswinds during the opening days of Bahrain testing affected multiple drivers across the grid, so not all instability can be attributed solely to Ferrari’s setup. Nevertheless, the Mercedes W17 appeared more settled under similar conditions.

Despite these early adaptation challenges, the Briton remained relatively close to George Russell on outright lap times, underlining that Ferrari’s raw pace potential remains competitive. The seven-time world champion still has ample testing mileage ahead to refine his understanding of the SF-26’s aerodynamic characteristics, braking behavior, and power unit delivery under the 2026 Formula 1 technical regulations.

There are encouraging signs that Lewis Hamilton is gradually modifying his driving inputs to better suit Ferrari’s platform, but Charles Leclerc currently appears to hold a marginal advantage in extracting immediate performance from the car. With Max Verstappen, a resurgent Mercedes lineup, and a strong McLaren package also in contention, predicting the outcome of the 2026 championship battle remains premature.

As pre-season testing continues, the Ferrari vs Mercedes fight is already generating significant intrigue. Whether Lewis Hamilton can fully synchronize his driving style with the SF-26 — and whether Charles Leclerc can capitalize on his early comfort advantage — could play a pivotal role in shaping the competitive landscape of the 2026 Formula 1 season.