Formula 1 is set to hold three pre-season testing sessions leading up to the significant new regulations era in 2026.
Given the substantial overhaul of F1 cars and power units planned for 2026 – considered possibly the largest single rule change in the sport`s history – teams will be allocated more track time for testing their entirely new cars before the 24-race season begins. This is a contrast to the single three-day tests held in previous seasons.
The first test in 2026 will take place at Spain`s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya over five days from January 26-30. However, this will be a private, closed-door session for teams, in line with the upcoming year`s regulations.
Bahrain, which has been the favoured location for recent pre-season testing, will host two consecutive three-day tests in February.
The dates for these tests are February 11-13 for the first session, followed by February 18-20 for the second.
The 2026 season will then commence with the Australian Grand Prix two weeks later, scheduled for March 6-8.
In other news, Formula 1 has confirmed that the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be moved to a Saturday race day because of a national holiday.
The race in Baku is now set for Saturday, September 26. Qualifying will be held on Friday and practice on Thursday. The Las Vegas Grand Prix follows a similar schedule, although due to time differences, it remains a Sunday race for viewers in the UK.
