The Bahrain GP: What Can We Expect?
The 2026 Formula 1 season has had a very large impact on modernizing aero technology and new power units, as well as the iconic Drag Reduction System (DRS) being replaced by a new Overtake Mode. This has impacted the drivers, giving them the upper hand when it comes to moving up in the race, controlling the car, and overall ability to perform better as a whole. However, one individual stands out: Andrea Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes.
The 20-year old superstar dominated the early season winning a whopping 5 races in a row. He currently stands at 1st place on the driver rankings, with his teammate, George Russell, not far behind. Out of the 15 Grand Prix that have happened this season, 11 have been won by Mercedes, with Antonelli taking P1 for 8 of the races, and George Russell winning 3. But drivers such as Lando Norris (McLaren) and long-time driver Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari), have proven to be worthy opponents of Antonelli. This begs the question: can these teams make the ultimate comeback?
The short answer is, possibly, but probably not based on the current standings and point differences. But, Norris has won 2 grand prix this season, and Hamilton and his teammate Charles Leclerc, have won a combined 2 races. Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari are some of the most impressive teams in F1 history, and they are currently standing on the podium of team rankings, overshadowing legendary drivers such as Max Verstappen. With T-minus 13 hours (as of 10/2/26, 11:40 AM) until the Bahrain Grand Prix is in action, Ferrari have proved themselves to be a reasonably challenging opponent during the practices. However, Red Bull has made a significant comeback, with Isack Hadjar returning, and taking P2 during the second practice, passing Verstappen who placed 4th. In Practice 1, however, Max Verstappen took pole position, with Hadjar placing P3. So, who is most likely to win?
The odds are currently in favor of Kimi Antonelli, with the odds being 11/8 (Favorite ~41%), with his teammates odds being 3/1 to 4/1 (~22%), Verstappen being 15/2 to 18/1 (~15%), and Charles Leclerc having the 4th highest odds of 12/1. We can’t determine a victor now, but by the time the Qualifying lap is complete, these odds may very likely change.
