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F1 2026 launch season features new cars, power units, and 11 teams. Here’s how the launch calendar stacks up as F1 heads into its boldest era yet.
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Formula 1’s biggest reset in decades is almost here — and launch season for 2026 is shaping up to be unmissable.
With radically new cars, overhauled power units and 11 teams on the grid for the first time, preparations are ramping up earlier than usual.
Pre-season testing begins behind closed doors in Barcelona at the end of January, meaning teams are rolling out liveries and early renders weeks ahead of schedule.
Here’s how the launch calendar stacks up as F1 heads into its boldest era yet.
January launches: Engines first, politics later
Jan 15 – Red Bull & Racing Bulls
Both Red Bull teams kick things off in Detroit at Ford’s HQ, unveiling their 2026 liveries as part of the brand’s global motorsport launch.
Jan 19 – Haas
Haas revealed the VF-26 online, shifting their date to avoid clashes with Ferrari and Alpine.
Jan 20 – Audi
Sauber’s transformation into Audi becomes official with a global launch event in Berlin.
Jan 20 – Honda
Honda host a standalone engine reveal in Tokyo, marking their full factory return as Aston Martin’s power-unit partner.
Jan 22 – Mercedes
Hotly tipped for the new era, Mercedes unveil first renders of the W17 before an online launch event in early February.
Jan 23 – Ferrari & Alpine
Ferrari launches after a winless 2025 season, promising an “aggressive” reset. Alpine will also unveil their new car as they switch to Mercedes power.
February: New teams, big names, bold statements
Feb 3 – Williams
Williams reveal a “new look” FW48 after running a fan-designed livery in testing.
Feb 8 – Cadillac
F1’s newest team breaks cover during a Super Bowl TV ad — because of course they do.
Feb 9 – McLaren
Defending champions unveil their 2026 challenger with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in Bahrain.
Feb 9 – Aston Martin
All eyes on the first Adrian Newey-designed Aston Martin, and the team’s first Honda-powered car.
January 10, 2026, 7:03 PM IST
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