Max Verstappen topped the timesheets on the final day of pre-season testing in Bahrain, as rookie Oscar Piastri experienced his first run in a McLaren.
Verstappen, driving for Red Bull, posted a time of 1:30.674 on the softest compound of tyre available. This was enough to beat out Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas, who was 0.072 seconds behind. The Dutch driver was pleased with his performance, saying that the car felt “very good” and that he was “very happy” with the results.
Meanwhile, Piastri made his debut in a McLaren after being signed by the team as a reserve driver. The Australian driver completed a total of 64 laps during his first run in the car, posting a best time of 1:32.822. Piastri was pleased with his performance, saying that he felt “really comfortable” in the car and that he was “really happy” with his results.
Overall, it was a successful day of testing for both Red Bull and McLaren. Verstappen’s time was the fastest of the day, while Piastri’s debut in a McLaren was encouraging. With the start of the 2021 Formula One season just around the corner, both teams will be looking to carry this momentum into the first race in Bahrain on March 28th.
