Wednesday. 06.11.2024
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Formula One confirms tests in Barcelona and Bahrain

Teams will run their cars newly designed under fresh hybrid engines rules for this season for the first time at Spain's Circuit de Catalunya February 23-25

14 March 2021, Bahrain, Sakhir: Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso of Alpine F1 Team takes part in the third day of the 2021 Formula 1 Pre-Season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. Photo: Hasan Bratic/dpa
File photo of Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso of Alpine F1 Team taking part in the third day of the 2021 Formula 1 Pre-Season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. Photo: Hasan Bratic/dpa.

Formula One has confirmed two pre-season tests will take place in Barcelona and Bahrain ahead of the bumper 23-race calendar planned for 2022.

Teams will run their cars newly designed under fresh hybrid engines rules for this season for the first time at Spain's Circuit de Catalunya February 23-25.

A second test will then place at the Sakhir International circuit March 10-12 before the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on March 20.

The new regulations are the first change since the hybrid era began in 2014 and was dominated by Mercedes, who claimed all eight constructors' titles under the old rules.

It is hoped the changes will increase overtaking opportunities while financial caps should close the gap between the richer teams and the rest.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen won a controversial drivers' title last season to deny Mercedes an eight-year sweep in that championship as well.

Formula One confirms tests in Barcelona and Bahrain