For years, so much focus within the Formula 1 world has been geared toward 2026 and the start of what was promised to be a new, exciting era for the sport.

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has insisted he is "motivated" for the new Formula 1 season despite revealing concerns about the sport's new regulations for the 2026 season.

That said, the four teams expected to be closest to the front were in the top positions, with pre-season favourite George Russell of Mercedes third fastest ahead of Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton.