Pirelli preview the second 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain preseason test

Five days after the opening three day session, cars are back on track from 18 to 20 February for the final opportunity to gather data before the season opener. Unlike the first test, where only the three hardest compounds were available, teams could now select 24 sets from all five slick options, from C1 through to C5.

Teams were also permitted to carry over tyres used for no more than 9 laps during the previous week.

The C3 and C2 proved the most popular selections, chosen by 10 of the 11 teams. Only Mercedes opted to stick exclusively with the three hardest compounds already in use during the opening test.

McLaren, Ferrari, Racing Bulls, Audi and Haas added the C4 compound to their allocation.

Red Bull Racing, Alpine, Williams and Aston Martin opted for softer strategies overall. Racing Bulls limited their selection to C2, C3 and C4, while Alpine and Williams included the softest C5 compound. Aston Martin stands out as the only team to select strictly the three softest options, C3, C4 and C5.

The new entrant Cadillac requested at least one set of every available dry compound, making it the only team to spread its allocation across the full range.

Each day’s running begins at 10:00 and concludes at 19:00 local time at the Bahrain International Circuit.

For testing, Pirelli is using a specific sidewall identification system to help spectators and viewers distinguish the compounds. The C1 and C2 feature white logos, C3 and C4 carry yellow logos, and the C5 runs red markings.

Where two compounds share the same colour, the harder of the pair will carry a chequered flag pattern on the sidewall. As a result, only the C2 and C4 will appear without the chequered decoration, displaying solely the Pirelli and P Zero branding.

With the full range now in play, teams enter the decisive phase of preparation ahead of the new Formula 1 season.