Overview
- The new three-part test program opens Jan. 26–30 in Barcelona behind closed doors, then continues in Bahrain on Feb. 11–13 and Feb. 18–20, with Cadillac set for its first on-track running.
- DRS is scrapped for 2026, replaced by active front and rear wing modes and a driver‑selectable electric overtake boost intended to aid passing.
- The power units target roughly a 50% electrical share and run on 100% sustainable fuels, while the cars shrink and drop to a 768 kg minimum to improve agility.
- Ford sport chief Mark Rushbrook says the Red Bull–Ford engine project is on schedule but stresses that real performance will only be proven in the first track tests, with any initial ICE shortfall expected to be small.
- Preseason form is considered wide open, with commentators spotlighting Lewis Hamilton’s need for a rebound after a poor 2025 at Ferrari and no clear favorite emerging under the reset rules.