Overview
- Teams will conduct a closed‑door shakedown window at Barcelona on January 26–30 to validate first 2026 designs featuring active aerodynamics, 100% sustainable fuels and power units without the MGU‑H with roughly half the output from electric power.
- The two official test blocks in Bahrain are set for February 11–13 and February 18–20, followed by the season opener in Melbourne on March 8.
- The launch slate includes Red Bull and Racing Bull in Detroit on January 15, Audi Revolut in Berlin on January 20, Ferrari in Maranello plus Alpine‑Mercedes at Montmeló and Haas online on January 23, Cadillac in Santa Clara on February 8, and Aston Martin on February 9.
- Branding refreshes opened the year as Red Bull and Mercedes made minor logo tweaks and Haas adopted the Toyota Gazoo Racing ‘TGR’ initials in its 2026 mark.
- Aston Martin’s new technical chief Enrico Cardile stresses forging a distinct concept, citing a new wind tunnel and simulator and high‑profile hires including Andy Cowell and Adrian Newey to deliver a stronger car for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.