Red Bull Leads 2026 F1 Car Launch Schedule, One Team Still Unannounced
Red Bull has set the pace for 2026 F1 car unveilings, with launches from January 15 through February 9 covering most teams. Only McLaren remains without a confirmed date amid new power‑unit rules.
Red Bull Racing will open the 2026 F1 car launch calendar on Jan 15, setting the pace for a series of unveilings that run to early February. Ten of the eleven grid teams have now confirmed dates and venues, giving fans a clear view of the season’s technical direction. Only McLaren has yet to announce a launch.
Why it matters:
Early reveals let teams lock in aero and power‑unit development before pre‑season testing, a key edge under the 2026 efficiency rules. Launch events also generate sponsor buzz and help the FIA meet homologation deadlines. These timelines also help teams stay on track with the FIA's 2026 technical regulation deadlines, ensuring compliance before the season opener.
The details:
- Jan 15 – Red Bull Racing & Racing Bulls – Detroit (Ford). In‑house RB22 power unit.
- Jan 20 – Audi – Berlin. Own power unit debut.
- Jan 21 – Honda – Tokyo. Supplying engines to Aston Martin from 2026.
- Jan 22 – Mercedes – First look at W17; digital launch Feb 2.
- Jan 23 – Ferrari – Fiorano. Alpine – Barcelona. Haas – online.
- Feb 3 – Williams – FW48 livery after fan vote.
- Feb 8/9 – Cadillac – Super Bowl LVIII halftime (Feb 9 EU).
- Feb 9 – Aston Martin – New Newey design post‑test.
- TBD – McLaren – No date.
What's next:
Pre‑season testing in Barcelona begins late February, where teams will run their 2026 packages. McLaren’s silence hints at a delayed or special reveal. The final launch schedule should be set in the coming weeks, and early test data will start shaping the championship race. With the first test underway, performance gaps between the new power units will become clearer, setting the tone for the title fight.