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Sports · 16 February 2026

McLaren concede Ferrari and Mercedes ahead in early F1 race simulations

McLaren concede Ferrari and Mercedes ahead in early F1 race simulations

Liauzh via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

McLaren’s team principal Andrea Stella has acknowledged that rivals Mercedes and Ferrari posted quicker race simulation times than his side during pre-season testing in Bahrain. While cautious about drawing firm conclusions from early data, Stella said both teams set a high benchmark that McLaren must chase ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 campaign. Red Bull also looks competitive, suggesting a close battle among the traditional leading squads.

Reported by motorsport.com · How we write briefs

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