When does the 2026 F1 season begin? All it’s essential know

As quickly because the chequered flag fell for the ultimate time in 2025 in Abu Dhabi, consideration already began turning in the direction of the 2026 F1 season.

The 2026 season will function 24 races, opening with the Australian Grand Prix on 8 March and ending on 6 December with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Large adjustments are coming to F1 in 2026, with the introduction of name new rules.

The brand new F1 design guidelines, that have an effect on chassis, aerodynamics and the facility unit, are the largest within the championship’s 75-year historical past and will shake-up the pecking order.

F1 will say goodbye to DRS as new shifting wings are launched, with the automobiles designed to enhance following and overtaking alternatives.

On account of the regulation overhaul, there shall be extra pre-season testing than regular.

An preliminary check shall be held behind closed doorways on the finish of January in Barcelona, earlier than two additional pre-season exams are held in Bahrain in February.

The season will then start for actual in Melbourne on the second weekend of March.

F1 pre-season testing dates

Non-public check, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya – January 26-30

Official pre-season Check 1, Bahrain Worldwide Circuit – February 11-13

Official pre-season Check 2, Bahrain Worldwide Circuit – February 18-20

Full F1 2026 calendar

The 2026 F1 season includes a new race within the Spanish capital Madrid.

This race is along with the grand prix held at Barcelona’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Madrid replaces Imola, which drops off the calendar for 2026.

What about dash races?

Six dash races will as soon as once more be held in F1 2026.

The British Grand Prix shall be one of many venues to host a dash, with Silverstone final staging the format in 2021.

The opposite races to carry dash races in 2026 shall be China, Miami, Canada, the Netherlands and Singapore.

F1 2026 driver line-ups