F1 - Mercedes sets the pace in Barcelona, Ferrari pulls off a surprise! | AutoHebdo

While the worst-case scenario was feared in terms of reliability, the exact opposite occurred at the Circuit de Catalunya, where many predictions were overturned. Although Mercedes is in the lead, as widely anticipated, it is not alone as it was in 2014.

Published 02/02/2026 à 13:40

Jean-Michel Desnoues

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Mercedes sets the pace in Barcelona, Ferrari creates a surprise!

© Scuderia Ferrari

Behind closed doors! Traumatized by the introduction of the turbo/hybrid power unit in 2014, during which eight teams only completed 93 laps on the first day at Jerez, the F1 had decided to conduct this new "engine" revolution behind closed doors. The objective was simple: to allow the teams to test and develop their 2026 cars.

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Jean-Michel Desnoues

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² Comment (s)

Yves-Henri RANDIER

03/02/2026 at 07:27 a.m.

It remains to be seen whether what was seen behind closed doors during Barcelona's shakedown will be confirmed soon in Bahrain!

A

Alain Féguenne (🇱🇺 Luxembourg)

02/02/2026 at 03:35 a.m.

Bahrain 🇧🇭 is coming soon, things are about to get serious ‼️. 😎👍

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