F1's 2026 pre-season kicks off with first public test in Bahrain

Formula 1's 2026 season officially begins its public phase with the first of two three-day pre-season tests in Bahrain from February 11-13. This marks the first time fans and media can see the all-new cars on track, following a closed-door shakedown in Barcelona, and offers the first real clues about the competitive order.

Why it matters:

Pre-season testing is the only opportunity for teams to gather critical data on their radically new cars and power units before the competitive pressure of a race weekend begins. The performance and reliability displayed here set the initial narrative for the season and can reveal early surprises or confirm expected weaknesses, directly influencing strategies for the opening rounds.

The details:

• Full Grid Participation: All 11 teams will be on track for the first time, after Williams opted to skip the earlier Barcelona test. The Barcelona session saw a maximum of eight cars running simultaneously.
• Driver Line-up: Teams are expected to field their 2026 race drivers exclusively throughout the test, due to the steep learning curve associated with the new technical regulations.
• Viewing Access: Unlike the private Barcelona test, this session will have limited live coverage. Only the final hour of each day (10am-7pm local time, GMT+3) will be streamed live via F1's broadcast partners like Sky Sports F1.
• Fan Attendance: Tickets are available for the public, but only for the second and third days (February 12-13). The first day of running will be closed to spectators.
• Follow Along: Live timing will be available on the official Formula 1 website throughout all three days of the test.

What's next:

This test is just the first act of the pre-season. A second three-day test follows in Bahrain one week later, from February 18-20, providing teams a final chance to refine their packages. The competitive truth will then be revealed at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, which begins on March 6.