Sky Sports to Broadcast Full Bahrain Pre-Season Test Sessions This Week

Sky Sports will air the entire second pre-season test in Bahrain this week, marking the first time this year that fans can watch complete Formula 1 sessions. This follows a Barcelona shakedown held behind closed doors and a first Bahrain test where only the final hour of each day was televised.

Why it matters:

Full broadcast access is crucial for fans and analysts to gain early insights into team performance and car development ahead of the new season. After limited viewing opportunities so far, this comprehensive coverage allows for a deeper understanding of the competitive landscape as teams finalize their preparations.

The details:

• Sky Sports' coverage begins at 6:50 GMT on Wednesday, February 18, just before the four-hour morning session starts at 7:00.
• After a one-hour break, broadcasting resumes at 11:50 GMT for the afternoon session, which runs until 16:00.
• Each day concludes with a 30-minute 'Testing Wrap' program at 20:00 GMT.
• This full-day broadcast schedule repeats on Thursday, February 19, and Friday, February 20.
• Depending on regional broadcasting rights, the test may also be available in full on F1 TV.

What's next:

The data and impressions gathered from these three full days of testing will be the final major indicator of team form before the 2026 season officially begins. Teams will analyze performance, reliability, and setup options, while fans and pundits will scrutinize the footage for early clues about the pecking order heading into the first race.