F1 2026 Launch Season Begins Early Tonight in Detroit
Formula 1's 2026 launch season kicks off early tonight in Detroit with Red Bull and Ford. The accelerated timeline is driven by massive technical rule changes requiring three pre-season tests, starting later this month in Barcelona.
Formula 1 is kicking off its 2026 campaign unusually early this Thursday, with Red Bull and Racing Bulls unveiling their liveries in Detroit. This accelerated start is necessitated by the sport's most significant technical overhaul in history, which requires three pre-season tests instead of the usual one.
Why it matters:
The 2026 regulations bring drastic changes to chassis and power units, forcing teams to adapt quickly. With the first pre-season test starting January 26 in Barcelona—the earliest since 2014—teams are rushing to show their colors and initial car concepts before hitting the track.
The details:
- Detroit Debut: The Red Bull teams launch their Ford partnership tonight, showcasing liveries rather than actual cars.
- Car Reveals: Mercedes (Jan 22) and Haas (Feb 19) are committed to showing their actual challengers, while Ferrari and Alpine (Jan 23) may follow suit.
- Strategic Secrecy: Teams will carefully control angles and lighting to hide technical innovations, as seen in Audi's recent shakedown where minimal details were exposed.
- New Identities: Audi will unveil its final rebrand in Berlin, moving away from Sauber's green, while Cadillac will reveal its livery during the Super Bowl on February 8.
What's next:
The focus shifts to the track next week for the first test in Barcelona, where the real performance of these new regulations will finally be revealed.