Updated Schedule for the 2026 Formula One World Championship
Formula 1 Announces 2026 Pre-Season Testing Schedule and Azerbaijan Grand Prix Date Change
Formula 1 has unveiled its pre-season testing schedule for the 2026 season, with three sessions scheduled before the season opener in Australia. The calendar includes a return to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Bahrain International Circuit, and an exciting date change for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The testing schedule commences with a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26-30, setting the stage for the new season. Following this, the Bahrain International Circuit will host two public test sessions on February 11-13 and February 18-20.
In an unusual twist, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has been moved forward by one day, now scheduled for Saturday, September 26, to accommodate a national day. This adjustment means that all event activities will shift accordingly, with the race day taking place on a Saturday instead of the usual Sunday slot.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix promoter and relevant government stakeholders requested the date change, ensuring that the event can be celebrated in the best possible way while maintaining its position in the 2026 Formula 1 pre-season schedule. The change in date does not affect the hosting location or the Grand Prix's placement in the overall calendar.
Each pre-season test in 2026 will last for four days, with the first test being a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26-30. The second and third tests will take place at the Bahrain International Circuit, with the first session from February 11-13 and the second from February 18-20.
With these announcements, Formula 1 fans can look forward to an exciting pre-season and a thrilling Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September. Stay tuned for more updates as the 2026 season approaches!
[1] Formula1.com, "2026 Formula 1 pre-season testing schedule revealed," accessed April 16, 2023, https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.2026-formula-1-pre-season-testing-schedule-revealed.1732126.html
[2] GrandPrix247.com, "Azerbaijan Grand Prix date change to accommodate national day," accessed April 16, 2023, https://www.grandprix247.com/news/2023/03/23/azerbaijan-grand-prix-date-change-to-accommodate-national-day/
Racing enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as it will take place on Saturday, September 26, to accommodate a national day. This move also means that sports fans can look forward to an exciting series of Formula 1 pre-season tests, starting with a private test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26-30.
