Formula 1: Is Bahrain testing on TV? UK times and how to watch new Mercedes car live from Bahrain

Kevin Magnussen returns to Formula 1 after Nikita Mazepin was let go due to Russia’s unprovoked invasion on Ukraine.
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For the first time in Formula 1 history, the organising bodies have allowed for two pre-season testing events to take place ahead of the new season, with the first happening in Barcelona last month.

And to make it even better, this preseason testing is available to watch live.

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Unsurprisingly, it was Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton who came out on top, and Bahrain is sure to be full of excitement and anticipation ahead of the first race of the 2022 season.

The biggest difference seen in Bahrain compared to Barcelona has been the return of Kevin Magnussen.

The 29-year-old Danish driver has come back to the paddock and will team up with his former franchise Haas after the US-based team sacked Nikita Mazepin due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

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Magnussen had been a driver for Haas, along with Romain Grosjean, from 2017 to 2020 but was let go after Haas’ new German sponsor wanted a different line-up, including a German driver.

Speaking after the announcement, the Dane said: “I’ve been briefed as much as possible on the development of the VF-22 (car) and the potential in the package. There’s work to be done but I’m excited to be part of it. I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car in Bahrain.”

Gunther Steiner, Haas’ team principal said: “When looking for a driver who could bring value to the team, not to mention a wealth of Formula 1 experience, Kevin was a straightforward decision for us.

Magnussen, right, will join Mick Schumacher to make up 2022 line up for HaasMagnussen, right, will join Mick Schumacher to make up 2022 line up for Haas
Magnussen, right, will join Mick Schumacher to make up 2022 line up for Haas

“As a veteran presence in both the garage and the engineering room, he’ll provide a solid benchmark for us with the ongoing development of the VF-22.”

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Mercedes have also brought a new element to their Bahrain testing. Their Barcelona testing offered a basic version of its challenger but now the tweaked Mercedes has been seen with new upgrades, such as minimalist side pods as well as some aggressive looking fins to run alongside the cockpit to comply with side-impact regulations.

So how can you keep up with the news from Bahrain? Here’s all you need to know about the Bahrain testing…

When is the Bahrain testing taking place?

The first day of testing is today, Thursday 10 March 2022 and the next two days, Friday 11 March and Saturday 12 March 2022 will see the cars continue to be put through their paces on the Bahrain track.

What are the timings for the Bahrain testing?

The morning sessions begin at 7am GMT (10 am local time) and the afternoon sessions will commence at 12pm GMT (3pm local time).

How to watch the Bahrain testing?

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All of the action from Bahrain will be available to watch on the Sky Sports F1 channel. Subscription for Sky Sports begins at around £40/month.

Sky and BBC Sport are also offering live text coverage on their websites.

When is the first Grand Prix?

The Bahrain Grand Prix kicks off the season on Sunday 20th March at the Gulf Air Bahrain International Circuit. The season will boast a record-breaking 23 races.

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