Sky F1 to broadcast full live coverage of final 2026 pre-season test in Bahrain

Sky Sports F1 has confirmed it will air full live coverage of the third and final pre-season test in Bahrain next week, following a second test this week that will receive only limited broadcast time. The decision marks a return to the comprehensive testing coverage fans have become accustomed to in recent years.

Why it matters:

Pre-season testing is a critical window for teams to refine their radically new 2026-spec cars and for fans to get their first real glimpse of the competitive order. Limited broadcast access restricts this insight, making the return of full coverage for the final test crucial for fan engagement and setting the narrative ahead of the season opener.

The details:

• Sky F1 will show live coverage from 6:50 AM GMT each morning from February 18-20, resuming after a lunch break for the afternoon session from 11:55 AM GMT.
• This follows a second test in Bahrain (February 11-13) where only the final hour of each day's running will be broadcast live.
• The expanded 2026 testing calendar, which included a closed-door 'Shakedown Week' in Barcelona last month, has complicated broadcast logistics compared to the recent standard of a single three-day test.
• In addition to live track coverage, Sky F1 will continue its nightly 'testing wrap' show at 8:00 PM GMT to analyze the day's events.

What's next:

The final test in Bahrain represents the last opportunity for teams to gather data and for broadcasters to set the stage before the competitive action begins. Full coverage allows for detailed analysis of car performance and driver feedback, which will shape the storylines and expectations for the opening Grand Prix of the 2026 season.