It is March 12 and the 2021 Formula 1 pre-season can officially start. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, we start a bit later than usual this year, but fortunately, the first Grand Prix will most likely take place in two weeks time. However, we start today with the winter test. Be sure to keep checking this page to keep updated with the news from Bahrain.
Liveblog
Four 'new' faces
During this winter test, it is of course fun to watch drivers who were not there last season. How do Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin compare to each other, can Yuki Tsunoda deliver on his promise and has Fernando Alonso lost some of his speed. Questions to which we will not get a definitive answer, but at least an indication.
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Red Bull goes for faster pit stops with new partner
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What to expect from Verstappen, Mercedes and Ferrari at the winter test
Drivers in new colours
Apart from the new (and old) faces, many drivers have changed teams after a chaotic silly season in 2020. For the fans, this is the first time we can see Carlos Sainz in red for Ferrari, Sebastian Vettel in green for Aston Martin and Daniel Ricciardo in orange for McLaren.
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Ferrari have political message with their choice to vaccinate team members
Mercedes vs. Red Bull Racing
Finally, this is also the first showdown between the 'new' cars. The FIA has limited the possibilities for adjustments compared to last season, but the new guidelines with regard to the floor bring greater changes than previously thought. The big question is who will benefit most: Mercedes or Red Bull Racing?
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