Bahrain Test 2025, Mercedes smiles and sets sights on McLaren: George Russell and Kimi Antonelli’s comments. George Russell and Kimi Antonelli take stock of three days of Mercedes testing in Bahrain.

The F1 pre-season tests have concluded in Bahrain, and Mercedes looks ahead with optimism to the first race of 2025. The Silver Arrows completed more laps than any other team (a total of 458). At the end of the tests, the Brackley team gathered enough data to prepare as best as possible for Australia.

F1 Bahrain Test 2025: Mercedes in Numbers
Total laps: 458, of which 232 were completed by George Russell and 226 by Kimi Antonelli;
1:29.545 was Russell’s fastest lap (C3); 1:29.784 was Antonelli’s fastest lap (C3).

Mercedes Test in Bahrain: George Russell Speaks
“We had three productive days here at the pre-season tests in Bahrain,” Russell stated in a press release. “The team in Brackley, Brixworth, and here at the track did an excellent job preparing us for the test and accumulating a significant amount of mileage. We had three trouble-free days, and the car is running well.”

A special mention to a rival team, as well as the reigning world champion: “It’s no surprise to see some of our competitors, particularly McLaren, in good form. We have gathered significant data and knowledge that give us the opportunity to find further improvements before Melbourne. Kimi and I will be at the factory next week, working in the simulator, and everyone will be giving their all to ensure we bring our best to Australia. I can’t wait to get started!”

Mercedes Test in Bahrain: Kimi Antonelli’s Words
“Overall, they were three good days on track here in Bahrain. It was a positive test, and we built our understanding of the W16 with a lot of laps. There were some interruptions and red flags that delayed our program, but we accomplished everything we wanted,” Kimi Antonelli said, referring to the various setbacks over the past days.

“The conditions were also mixed, with cold and wind particularly in the first two days. That made it even harder than usual to get a clear idea of who was most competitive, but we just focused on our work and are happy with what we achieved. Now we can go away, analyze the data, and continue working on how to bring the best possible car to the first race in Melbourne in two weeks,” he continued.

The young Italian talent then stated: “From my point of view, I enjoyed getting on track for the first time as an official Mercedes driver. It was great to continue building my experience working with the team and deepening my preparations for my rookie season. I’m excited to get to Melbourne and kick off the 2025 season.”