The start of preseason testing in Bahrain on Wednesday was a major landmark in the lead-up to the new Formula One season, giving all 10 teams a first opportunity to complete extended running with their new cars. With the season opener in Australia just weeks away, every lap at Bahrain International Circuit across all three days is precious.

Lewis Hamilton was fifth-fastest in his first session of preseason testing with Ferrari as his successor at Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, posted the fastest time.

Kimi Antonelli led the way at the lunch hour as the F1 drivers began to get to grips with their new 2025 challengers at the Bahrain circuit, and had a first look at their rivals in action. After two weeks of launches,

Formula One's showcase Monaco Grand Prix will have two mandatory pitstops per driver to liven up the racing, the sport's governing body said on Wednesday.

Formula 1 drivers will have to make at least two pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix in an attempt to inject some jeopardy into a glamorous race where overtaking is almost impossible.

Specific regulations for the Monaco Grand Prix have now been approved, having been released by the World Motor Sport Council.