Formula 1: 2026 Pre-season with Novelties and Radical Changes
The 2026 Formula 1 season is shaping up with major changes. The competition will kick off with ten crucial test days, distributed across events held in Barcelona and Bahrain.
F1 will be significantly transformed next season. Modifications to the regulations, both in aerodynamics and engines, will force all teams to present completely new vehicles.
In addition, the grid will expand from ten to eleven teams, with the incorporation of the American team Cadillac as a new participant.
The preseason will begin with a private test between January 26 and 30 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, home of the Spanish Grand Prix.
Subsequently, open tests will be carried out at the Bahrain International Circuit, scheduled between February 11 and 13, and February 18 and 20.
The F1 season will start with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8th.
Unlike the tests in Bahrain, the Barcelona schedule is not organized directly by F1 or the FIA. The teams agreed on the program with the Spanish circuit independently.
For this reason, the test in Barcelona will not be broadcast on television, nor will the timing data be published.
This will allow teams to troubleshoot issues with their new cars, away from the public eye.
The tests in Bahrain will proceed as normal.
In addition to Cadillac’s arrival, in 2026 Audi will join the grid as an engine manufacturer. The German company will complete the acquisition of the Sauber team at the end of the current season.
