2026 F1 Season Start Date Revealed
The 2026 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be an exciting series of events, marked by significant changes and new regulations. Following the thrilling conclusion of the 2025 season in Abu Dhabi, the spotlight now shifts to what fans can expect in the upcoming year.
Key Changes for the 2026 F1 Season
Teams will face new engine and chassis regulations, which are expected to significantly alter the competitive landscape. Cadillac, a new addition to the Formula 1 lineup, will be among those adapting to these changes.
Pre-Season Testing Schedule
Before the season officially begins, teams will participate in three pre-season tests:
- Barcelona (Private Test): January 26-30
- Bahrain Test 1: February 11-13
- Bahrain Test 2: February 18-20
2026 F1 Race Calendar
The 2026 campaign will feature a total of 24 races, with the traditional Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne kicking off the season. A notable addition for 2026 will be the street race in Madrid, scheduled for September. Below is the full race calendar:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 6-8 | Australia |
| March 13-15 | China (Sprint Weekend) |
| March 27-29 | Japan |
| April 10-12 | Bahrain |
| April 17-19 | Saudi Arabia |
| May 1-3 | Miami (Sprint Weekend) |
| May 22-24 | Canada (Sprint Weekend) |
| June 5-7 | Monaco |
| June 12-14 | Spain (Barcelona) |
| June 26-28 | Austria |
| July 3-5 | Great Britain (Sprint Weekend) |
| July 17-19 | Belgium |
| July 24-26 | Hungary |
| August 21-23 | Netherlands (Sprint Weekend) |
| September 4-6 | Italy |
| September 11-13 | Spain (Madrid) |
| September 25-27 | Azerbaijan |
| October 9-11 | Singapore (Sprint Weekend) |
| October 23-25 | United States (Austin) |
| October 30 – November 1 | Mexico |
| November 6-8 | Brazil |
| November 19-21 | Las Vegas |
| November 27-29 | Qatar |
| December 4-6 | Abu Dhabi |
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on veteran drivers like Lewis Hamilton, who seeks to improve his performance during the 2026 campaign with Ferrari. Fans and teams alike anticipate the excitement that the season will bring as new regulations are put into practice.
