Pre-season testing for the 2026 Formula 1 season is set to kick off this week at the Bahrain International Circuit. Over the course of two to three days, all 11 F1 teams will participate in testing, each running only one car. Because of this, drivers will split their track time, with each driver scheduled to spend approximately one and a half days behind the wheel during each test. The exact driver lineup and schedule are at the discretion of each team and may be adjusted on short notice.
Several teams have already revealed their driver schedules for the initial Bahrain test, though many remain undecided. Here is the current breakdown:
McLaren: To be announced
Mercedes:
- Wednesday: Russell (morning), Antonelli (afternoon)
- Thursday: Antonelli (morning), Russell (afternoon)
- Friday: Russell (morning and afternoon)
Red Bull: To be announced
Ferrari: To be announced
Williams:
- Wednesday: Sainz (morning), Albon (afternoon)
- Thursday: Albon (morning), Sainz (afternoon)
- Friday: Sainz (morning), Albon (afternoon)
Racing Bulls: To be announced
Aston Martin:
- Wednesday: Walk
- Thursday: Alonso
- Friday: Walk
Hearth:
- Wednesday: Ocon
- Thursday: Bearman
- Friday: Bearman (morning), Ocon (afternoon)
Audi: To be announced
Takayama: To be announced
Cadillac: To be announced
The article will be updated as more teams finalize their testing schedules.
Fan Take: This early testing phase is critical because it offers the first glimpse at how teams are shaping up for the 2026 season, giving fans insight into driver performances and car developments. Watching the new driver lineups and team strategies unfold can set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable championship battle.
