Formula 1 2026: Pre-Season Testing Dates Confirmed as Cadillac Joins Expanded Grid
Formula 1 is already building momentum ahead of the 2026 season, with the FIA confirming pre-season testing dates, releasing the full race calendar, and welcoming major new names to the grid most notably Cadillac.
Formula 1 and the FIA have officially confirmed the pre-season testing schedule for the 2026 campaign, with three separate tests set to take place before the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in March.
2026 Pre-Season Testing Schedule
The first running of the new-generation cars will begin with a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, scheduled for January 26–30. This initial outing will allow teams to shake down their new machinery behind closed doors.
Testing then moves to the Bahrain International Circuit, which will host two further sessions:
Test Two: Sakhir FORMULA 1 ARAMCO PRE-SEASON TESTING 2026 11 – 13 Feb
Test Three: Sakhir FORMULA 1 ARAMCO PRE-SEASON TESTING 2026 18 – 20 Feb
Just two weeks after the final Bahrain test, the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship will officially get underway in Melbourne, with the Australian Grand Prix taking place from March 6–8.
Big New Arrivals for a New Era
Long before the season reaches Madrid in September, Formula 1 will enter a new era, with the grid expanding to 22 cars and major new partnerships coming into effect.
Cadillac’s F1 Debut
The headline addition is Cadillac, who will make their Formula 1 debut as a brand-new works team. Backed by an American operation with facilities in Indianapolis, Charlotte, and Silverstone, Cadillac face the dual challenge of building competitive infrastructure while managing the logistical demands of a global championship.
Despite being new to the grid, Cadillac arrive with an exceptionally experienced driver pairing:
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Sergio Pérez
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Valtteri Bottas
The duo will race under the leadership of Team Principal Graeme Lowdon and CEO Dan Towriss, giving the team a strong foundation as they embark on their inaugural season.
→Formula 1: Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Calendar
