F1: 2026 Bahrain Pre-Season Tests – Schedule and Where to Watch

The 2026 Formula 1 season is preparing for an exciting start, leaving behind the closed-door tests in Barcelona and moving the action to Bahrain for the official pre-season tests. With the eleven new single-seaters on track for the first time, the next two weeks will be crucial in determining which teams have adapted most quickly to the drastic regulatory changes in the sport.

Essential Information for the Tests

Here’s all the key information before the tests begin, including details on how to follow the action.When will the tests be carried out?Before the start of the season on March 8, two pre-season test series will be held, each lasting three days.

• First series: From Wednesday 11 to Friday 13 February.
• Second series: From Wednesday 18 to Friday 20 February.

Test Schedules:

The remaining six test days will follow the same schedule, starting at 7 a.m. GMT and ending at 4 p.m. This translates to a 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. schedule in Bahrain. Each “session” will last four hours, followed by a one-hour break, which will often be used for activities with the media.Who will participate?For the first time this season, all eleven teams will be in action during the tests in Bahrain. This includes the debut of Williams, who did not participate in the five days of testing in Barcelona. It is highly probable that the teams will use their starting drivers for the 2026 season, given the work needed to adapt to the new single-seaters, where the performance of the drivers will be more crucial than ever.How to follow the tests?Following attempts to keep the tests in Barcelona secret, fans will have the opportunity to follow the action live from Bahrain. However, the full live stream will not be available until the second test series. During the first three days in Bahrain, only the last hour will be broadcast live through broadcast partners. Fans will be able to follow the times and results on the F1 website.

What teams should we watch?Mercedes has established itself as the team to beat at the start of the 2026 season, showing impressive performance and mileage. McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari are also expected to demonstrate their potential in Bahrain. Aston Martin is considered a wildcard with an innovative design, but with limited work on the track, a situation similar to that of Williams. Alpine has shown outstanding performance in the midfield, along with Racing Bulls, while the new Audi and Cadillac teams have work ahead.Test Schedule in Bahrain (GMT):Test Bahrain 1

• Wednesday, February 11th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Thursday, February 12th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Friday, February 13th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Test Bahrain 2

• Wednesday, February 18th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Thursday, February 19th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Friday, February 20th: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.