Formula 1's 2026 season is gearing up for its official preseason testing in Bahrain, following a behind-closed-doors shakedown in Barcelona. With all 11 new cars on track together for the first time, the next two weeks will offer a clear early indication of who has adapted quickest to the sport's sweeping regulation changes. Here's your guide to the Bahrain testing schedule and how to watch it live.
When and Where?
Testing takes place over two three-day periods before the season starts on March 8. The first test is from February 11-13, and the second is from February 18-20.
Timing
All six days of testing follow the same schedule: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. GMT, which is 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Bahrain. Each 'session' is four hours long, followed by an hour break (unofficially for lunch), often featuring media activities.
Who's Participating?
All 11 teams will be in action across the Bahrain tests for the first time this season. This includes Williams, who skipped the Barcelona shakedown. Teams are likely to use their 2026 race drivers, as the stars behind the wheel can make a significant impact.
How to Watch?
F1 and its teams tried to keep Barcelona testing secretive, but Bahrain will be more open. Fans can watch the action live, but not every minute will be streamed. For the opening three days, only the final hour will be live on F1's broadcast partners, like Sky Sports F1 in the UK. Sky will broadcast from 3 p.m. to 4:10 p.m. on February 11, 12, and 13.
Teams to Watch
Mercedes has already established itself as the early favorite in F1 2026. McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari are expected to show their hand in Bahrain. Aston Martin and Williams are wildcards with innovative designs but limited track time. Alpine and Racing Bulls have impressed, while new teams Audi and Cadillac have work to do.
Bahrain Testing Schedule (GMT)
- February 11: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- February 12: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- February 13: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- February 18: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- February 19: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- February 20: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
