Max Verstappen Spotted Using Never-Before-Seen Trick at 2026 Bahrain Test

Max Verstappen was reportedly using a new trick during Formula 1's Bahrain test in order to get on top of the new regulations.

This week, the first official testing session ahead of the 2026 F1 season began at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Reigning world champion Lando Norris set the fastest time of the first day with a 1:34.669.

Norris was closely followed by Verstappen, whose best effort was a 1:34.798. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc was third with a 1:35.190.

Ahead of the new campaign, radical changes were made to the sport's regulations.

Cars are set to be smaller, lighter and more agile, which promises to bring closer on-track battles.

In addition, the engine will also be different, with a much greater reliance on battery, meaning drivers will have to judge when and how hard they brake in order to top up the electrical power.

On Wednesday, Verstappen was spotted trying a new trick as he bids to gain an advantage over his rivals.

Max Verstappen in action in Bahrain. Image: Getty

As reported by The Race, the Dutchman was using 'an unorthodox downshifting technique' to boost revs, which can help recharge the battery quicker.

It has been stated that Verstappen would shift all the way down to first gear at corners where second gear is usually required.

For example, Turn 10 of the Bahrain track would normally be taken in second gear, but Verstappen surprised everyone by using first gear, resulting in a 'big spike in revs'.

It has been noted that Verstappen has been doing the trick from start to finish on Day One and 'already seems relatively at ease in terms of mastering'.

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff also claimed that the Red Bull engine is currently the benchmark.

He said: "They are able to deploy far more energy on the straights than everybody else. You are speaking a second, over consecutive laps.

"On a single lap we have seen it before, but now we have seen it on 10 consecutive laps with the same kind of straight-line deployment."

Wolff added: "I would say that as per today, on the first official day of testing, which is always with the caveat of that, they have set the benchmark."