Formula 1 confirms 2026 pre-season testing dates

Formula 1 and the FIA have announced the dates and locations for 2026 pre-season testing, with three tests set to take place prior to next year's championship.

With a new generation of cars and regulations on the way, teams will put their 2026 challengers to the test for the first time in Barcelona between January 26-30.

This first test will be different to the usual pre-season testing. Teams will only be allowed to run on three of the five days in this window, and all days will be private – meaning no broadcast feed available, and no broadcasters or media allowed on site.

Two more tests will follow before the start of the season in Australia on March 8, both in Bahrain between February 11-13, and February 18-20. Both tests in Sakhir will be open to broadcasters and media.

Next season promises to be very much a step into the unknown for the teams, as a new era of regulations begin in our sport, which will see brand-new specification Power Units and aero packages introduced to the grid.