Haas moves VF‑26 launch to Jan 19 to avoid congested car reveal day

Haas will unveil its 2026 challenger, the VF‑26, on Monday 19 January instead of the originally set Friday 23 January. The shift is meant to sidestep a crowded launch day that also features Ferrari and Alpine. With the reveal moving online, the team can keep its schedule flexible and continue its habit of early launches to dominate the news cycle.

Why it matters:

• Avoids media attention split with two other major teams.
• Gives Haas a clear window to showcase upgrades and attract sponsors.
• Early online launch aligns with the team's cost‑effective communication strategy.

The details:

• Original date: Friday 23 January 2026 at a physical event.
• New date: Monday 19 January 2026, live stream from the team's headquarters.
• Competing launches: Ferrari at Fiorino Circuit, Alpine in Barcelona, both set for 23 January.
• The decision was made by team principal Guenther Steiner and technical director Ayao Komatsu.
• Haas has historically launched ahead of rivals to generate buzz in the midfield.

What's next:

• Haas will release the VF‑26’s technical specifications later in the week.
• The team plans to debut the car in testing at the preseason test in Bahrain in early March.
• Fans can expect a full performance rundown ahead of the season opener in Bahrain.