Ferrari has finalized its driver lineup for the Bahrain F1 tests, revealing how Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will rotate behind the wheel of the SF-26. Here are all the details for the first pre-season session at the Sakhir circuit from February 11 to 13.
Ferrari’s lineup for the Bahrain tests
The Scuderia has decided how to deploy its two drivers during the Bahrain tests. Both the Monegasque and the Briton will have the opportunity to drive the SF-26 during the first session on the 5.412 km Sakhir circuit, known for putting significant stress on rear tires during traction phases. In Bahrain, having a high top speed is important, but equally crucial is exiting slow corners efficiently. Aerodynamic load plays a key role, and for the first time it will be possible to see live the use of active wings on the 2026 cars. It is worth noting that this first test session will not be broadcast live on TV, except for the last hour (from 16:00 to 17:00) on Sky Sport F1.
At the Barcelona tests, both drivers alternated driving the SF-26 depending on the days chosen by the team for their program. Now, with all teams on track simultaneously, Ferrari has confirmed the rotation for the first three-day session.
Day 1: Hamilton takes the wheel first
The first day, February 11, will see Lewis Hamilton start the session in the SF-26. If the reports about the FIA allowing Ferrari to run real fuel are correct, the Italian team could gain valuable insights into the reliability limits of their new power unit. This year, the electrical component provides 50% of total power, with a ‘full push’ mode available for approximately 10 seconds during a lap.
The first day schedule is as follows: the morning session starts at 9:00 AM (Italian time) and ends at 12:00 PM. After a lunch break until 1:00 PM, Charles Leclerc will take over the car for the afternoon session, finishing at 5:00 PM. According to AutoRacer.it, this is Ferrari’s official Day 1 lineup.
Ferrari SF-26 Day 1 rotation
- Morning (9:00 – 12:00): Lewis Hamilton
- Afternoon (13:00 – 17:00): Charles Leclerc
Days 2 and 3
The lineup for Thursday, February 12, and Friday, February 13 has not yet been announced. Ferrari will likely finalize the rotation closer to the sessions, depending on testing priorities and data gathered during Day 1.
