Three distinct pre-season testing periods have been confirmed for the 2026 Formula 1 season, ahead of the introduction of dramatic new technical regulations.
With F1 cars and power units set for a significant overhaul in what is arguably the biggest regulatory change in the sport`s history, teams will receive increased track time to prepare their brand-new challengers compared to the single three-day tests seen in recent years. The full 2026 calendar is set to feature 24 races.
Spain`s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya will host the first testing session over five days from January 26-30. This initial test will be a private, behind-closed-doors event for the teams, in line with the regulations for the upcoming year.
Bahrain, which has been the preferred location for recent pre-season running, is scheduled to host two consecutive three-day tests in February.
The first Bahrain test will take place from February 11-13, followed immediately by the second test from February 18-20.
The 2026 season is then scheduled to kick off two weeks later with the Australian Grand Prix, set to be held from March 6-8.
In addition to the testing schedule, F1 has also confirmed a calendar change: the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be moved to a Saturday race slot. This change is being made to accommodate a national holiday.
The street race in Baku is now planned for Saturday, September 26. Under this new schedule, qualifying will be held on Friday, preceded by practice sessions on Thursday. This mirrors the format used for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, though the time difference means Las Vegas remains a Sunday race for spectators in the UK.
Marcus Prine