Haas Completes VF-26 Shakedown at Fiorano Ahead of 2026 Season

Haas has officially entered the 2026 Formula 1 fray, conducting the first shakedown of its new VF-26 at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit. Driven by Oliver Bearman, the session marked the critical transition from digital renders to reality, showcasing the car’s new Toyota Gazoo Racing livery and offering an early glimpse of the team's readiness for the upcoming regulatory era.

Why it matters:

As the grid prepares for a radical overhaul in power unit regulations, securing early track time is vital for data collection and system validation. This successful run not only confirms the integration of the new Ferrari power unit but also visually underscores the deepening technical alliance with Toyota, signaling Haas’s intent to be competitive from the outset of the new ruleset.

The details:

• Maiden Voyage: Oliver Bearman completed the first laps of the VF-26 on Pirelli intermediate tires, ensuring the car functions correctly in real-world conditions ahead of official testing.
• New Identity: The car sported prominent Toyota Gazoo Racing branding, reflecting the expanded partnership with the new title sponsor that defines the team's 2026 look.
• Follows Ferrari: This test follows Ferrari’s own shakedown at the same venue just 24 hours prior, highlighting the close collaboration between the American outfit and its engine supplier.
• Growing Grid: Haas joins a group of seven teams that have now successfully run their 2026 challengers, with Williams notably absent from the initial track action.

What's next:

The team now shifts its focus to the first official pre-season test in Barcelona, scheduled for January 26–30. Haas has hinted at an aggressive development curve, suggesting the car that appears in Spain will likely continue to evolve significantly before the season opener in Australia this March.