Formula 1's 2026 season is about to heat up! After a behind-the-scenes shakedown in Barcelona, the action moves to Bahrain for the official preseason testing. This is your ultimate guide to what to expect and how to watch. Get ready for the most anticipated showdown of the year!
When and Where is the Testing?
The testing will take place in two phases. The first three-day test is from February 11th to 13th, followed by another three-day test from February 18th to 20th. Both tests will be held in Bahrain, offering a glimpse into the teams' progress after the Barcelona shakedown.
Testing Schedule
The testing sessions will run from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. GMT, which is 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Bahrain. Each session is four hours long, followed by an hour-long break, providing an opportunity for media activities.
Who's Participating?
All 11 teams will be in action during the Bahrain tests. This includes Williams, who missed the Barcelona shakedown. The teams will be driving their 2026 race cars, with star drivers behind the wheel, making it a crucial time to assess their performance.
How to Watch?
For the first time this year, fans will get a chance to watch the action live in Bahrain. However, not every minute will be live-streamed. During the first three days, only the final hour of each session will be live-streamed by F1's broadcast partners, such as Sky Sports F1 in the UK. Sky will broadcast the action from 3 p.m. to 4:10 p.m. on February 11th, 12th, and 13th.
Fans can keep track of the times on F1's website, and ESPN will be running a live blog from Bahrain. The second test will be live-streamed throughout the three days.
Which Teams to Watch?
Mercedes has already established itself as the early favorite, with impressive performance and mileage. However, McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari are expected to show their hand in Bahrain. Aston Martin and Williams, with their innovative designs and limited track time, are wildcard entries. Alpine and Racing Bulls have been impressive out of the midfield, while new outfits Audi and Cadillac have some work to do.
Don't Miss the Action!
The Bahrain testing will provide the clearest early indication of who has adapted quickest to the sport's sweeping regulation changes. With all 11 new cars on track together, it's a crucial time to assess the teams' progress. So, mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready for the most anticipated showdown of the year!
What do you think? Who are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments below!
