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Lando Norris topped Bahrain F1 pre-season testing, showcasing McLaren`s potential amid notable performances and strategic changes.

Lando Norris of McLaren dominated the opening day of the 2025 Formula One World Championship pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, clocking a blistering lap time of 1:31.274. He finished 0.154 seconds ahead of Mercedes` George Russell, who secured second place, while Red Bull Racing`s Max Verstappen rounded out the top three, trailing Norris by 0.208 seconds.

The day was not without its challenges, including a power outage that halted testing for an hour and unexpected light rain. Lewis Hamilton made his debut in Ferrari colors, completing 61 laps but finishing 13th overall, nearly a second slower than teammate Charles Leclerc. Meanwhile, rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, stepping in for Hamilton at Mercedes, impressed by setting the fastest time in the morning session.

Oscar Piastri faced difficulties for McLaren, ending the day with the 17th-fastest time. Notable performances also came from Liam Lawson, who achieved the second-fastest time for Red Bull despite a spin, and Alex Albon, who finished third for Williams. The FIA announced a significant rule change for the Monaco Grand Prix, mandating a two-stop race strategy, which could impact team strategies moving forward.

As teams gather crucial data, the convergence in performance hints at an exciting and competitive season ahead in Formula One.

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