Mercedes push back against Ferrari’s proposal for April F1 test after Bahrain and Saudi cancellation
Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images Ferrari have put forward a proposal to the FIA for a joint in-season test at Monza, aiming to make use of the gap in the 2026 calendar created by the cancellations of F1’s races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The F1 calendar has a one-month break scheduled after this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, with teams set to return for the Miami GP from May 1-3. The races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were both called off due to ongoing concerns in the Middle East.
Instead, Ferrari have suggested an alternative: holding an in-season test during that period. The team believes this window is perfect for examining ways to improve energy recovery management under the new regulations, which have placed added emphasis on energy usage this season. Ferrari facing opposition from Mercedes over in-season test proposal But Nextgen-Auto reports that Ferrari are facing resistance from several other teams who aren’t on board with the idea.
The FIA is expected to make a decision soon. Aston Martin, McLaren , Mercedes, and Williams are all reportedly hesitant to back any form of in-season testing this year. The cancellations of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have not impacted the cost cap, so teams do have the financial flexibility for additional running.
Yet Ferrari’s proposal has met resistance from both ends of the competitive spectrum. If their request is denied, Ferrari could still organise a filming day at Monza. However, these sessions are limited to 200km per day, whereas an official test would allow for unlimited mileage.
Mercedes have started strong under the 2026 regulations and currently lead the championship. Their advantage seems to be energy management, with their power unit showing fewer issues than others early on. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have struggled to keep pace with Mercedes drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli over longer runs.