F1 2026 season to kick off in January with five-day pre-season tests in Barcelona. The 2026 F1 season will begin in January with five days of pre-season testing in Barcelona.

The 2026 Formula 1 season will get underway as early as January next year. This unusual timing is linked to the pre-season testing schedule, which will take place in Barcelona over five full days, right at the start of the year.

Significant changes to the chassis and engines, due to the new regulations, require teams to complete more laps, which is why Formula 1 management has allocated additional testing days. The first session is currently scheduled from January 26 to January 30, during which each of the eleven teams will be allowed to run for three days in total.

Extra days have been added to account for potential adverse weather conditions during this winter period. Following the Barcelona tests, the paddock will move to Bahrain. The two Bahrain sessions are scheduled from Wednesday, February 11 to Friday, February 13, and after a one-week break, the second session will run from Wednesday, February 18 to Friday, February 20.

There will be many challenges to face, and curiosity is high about what Cadillac and Audi will bring to the table. With so much to look forward to, fans can be sure not to miss any details of what will unfold in the lead-up to the 2026 season.