AtanariaThe 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit has wrapped up, offering crucial insights into the potential pecking order ahead of the new season. With all teams putting their latest machines through rigorous on-track assessments, several clear winners and losers have emerged.
Williams: A Surprise Contender?
One of the biggest talking points from testing was the remarkable performance of Williams. Carlos Sainz posted the fastest time on Thursday, while Alex Albon showcased impressive pace on Friday. While headline lap times do not always translate to race-day performance, there is a real sense that the Grove-based outfit has made significant strides. The consensus is that Williams could be aiming for fifth place in the constructors’ standings—a major leap forward from their previous campaigns.
Sauber: A Season of Struggle?
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Sauber looks set for a challenging year. As the team prepares for its transformation into Audi for 2026, development efforts seem focused on long-term gains rather than immediate performance. Nico Hülkenberg and his team struggled with balance and pace throughout testing, suggesting that Sauber may be the team bringing up the rear in 2025.
McLaren: The Team to Beat?
Fresh off their constructors’ championship win in 2024, McLaren appeared to pick up where they left off. Lando Norris’s race simulation on Day 2 was a revelation—putting a staggering 30-second gap on Ferrari and Mercedes over a full race distance. Meanwhile, Oscar Piastri demonstrated impressive consistency on the final day, outpacing Mercedes’ George Russell in similar conditions. While McLaren remains cautious, their testing form suggests they are the early-season favorites.
