F1 Confirms 2026 Pre-Season resting Schedule, Azerbaijan GP Date Moved
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Formula One and the FIA announced the 2026 pre-season testing: a private test in Barcelona and two in Bahrain. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is moved to September 26.
Formula 1 and the FIA have officially announced the pre-season testing schedule for the 2026 campaign, which will feature fresh regulations and intense competition. Teams will have three key opportunities to refine their cars, starting with a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26 to 30.
The second test will occur at the Bahrain International Circuit from February 11 to 13, followed by a third test at the same venue from February 18 to 20, according to the FIA.
'Test one will be a private test and will take place at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya between 26–30 January.Test two will take place at the Bahrain International Circuit between 11–13 February. Test three will take place at the Bahrain International Circuit between 18–20 February," F1 said in a statement.
These closed-door sessions are designed to provide teams with vital early data on their significantly redesigned 2026 cars. The testing phase will then move to the Middle East, where the Bahrain International Circuit will host two official tests with fans and media present. The first test in Bahrain runs from February 11 to 13, followed by a final tune-up from February 18 to 20 at the same location.
These sessions will offer the last look at team performance before the season kicks off in Australia, scheduled for March 6-8 at Melbourne's Albert Park.
When Is Azerbaijan Grand Prix?
Alongside confirming the testing programme, Formula 1 has also announced a change to the 2026 race calendar. Following a request from local organisers and government authorities, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku will now take place on Saturday, September 26, instead of the originally planned Sunday, September 27.
This change accommodates a national day celebration, with the entire event schedule moving forward by one day. All teams have been informed of the change, giving them ample time to adjust their plans for what is expected to be a busy and unpredictable season.
First Published:
June 30, 2025, 18:29 IST
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