The countdown to the start of the 2026 F1 season is well underway, but between now and the first race of the year, there are plenty of much-anticipated events to come
The countdown to the Australian Grand Prix is well underway(Image: Clive Rose/Getty Images)
Everything you need to know about the car launch events and pre-season testing sessions to come before the F1 season starts in Melbourne in early March.
Early Launch Schedule: Due to the significant technical changes, teams are unveiling their new cars and liveries much earlier than usual, with events starting as early as mid-January. This accelerated timeline is necessary to accommodate an expanded testing schedule that helps teams troubleshoot their radical new designs.
Red Bull’s dual launch: Red Bull and its sister team, Racing Bulls, will be the first to kick off the launch season with a joint event in Detroit on January 15th. This high-profile reveal celebrates their new collaboration with Ford, which will be assisting with the power units for both teams in the new era.
Haas’ launch switch: Haas originally planned to launch on January 23rd, but moved their date forward to January 19th to avoid clashing with other major teams. The VF-26 will debut with a refreshed livery, incorporating the new title sponsor Toyota Gazoo Racing into the design.
The two new teams: The 2026 grid will see the official arrival of Audi, which has taken over the Sauber team and will host a global launch in Berlin on January 20th. Additionally, the new 11th team on the grid, Cadillac, is planning a unique reveal by showcasing its maiden livery during a Super Bowl advertisement in early February.
Mercedes’ two-part launch: Mercedes is splitting its reveal into two parts, releasing digital renders in late January before holding a full season launch event featuring drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli in February.
Private and Public Testing: Pre-season testing has been expanded to 11 days, beginning with a five-day private shakedown session in Barcelona from January 26th to 30th. This will be followed by two public three-day tests in Bahrain, which will offer fans and media their first real look at the competitive order.
Missing McLaren Plans: While ten of the teams have confirmed their launch dates, the reigning constructors’ champions, McLaren, have yet to announce their official 2026 reveal. Lando Norris will be sporting the No.1 on the front of his car this year after winning the World Championship in Abu Dhabi in December.