All 11 Formula 1 teams have confirmed their 2026 car launch plans, as the sport prepares for sweeping technical regulation changes next season. The schedule includes the highly anticipated debuts of Audi and Cadillac, both entering Formula 1 under the new rules.
The 2026 season introduces major changes, including new chassis designs, revised engines, active aerodynamics, and the switch to 100% sustainable fuels. Teams have been developing their cars for several years ahead of the reset.
Launch events will begin in mid‑January and run into early February. While some teams plan full physical reveals, others will start with digital presentations or livery launches before running their cars on track.
Confirmed 2026 F1 Car Launch Dates
- 15 January – Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls: joint event in Detroit
- 19 January – Haas F1 Team: online launch
- 20 January – Audi F1 Team: global launch in Berlin
- 22 January – Mercedes‑AMG: initial digital reveal
- 23 January – Ferrari: full car reveal, with expected track running
- 23 January – Alpine: livery reveal in Barcelona
- 2 February – Mercedes‑AMG: full launch event
- 3 February – Williams Racing: final 2026 livery reveal
- 8 February – Cadillac F1: debut livery reveal
- 9 February – Aston Martin: launch of first Newey‑designed car
- 9 February – McLaren: live launch from Bahrain
Private pre‑season testing will take place behind closed doors in Barcelona from 26 to 30 January. Two further official test sessions are scheduled in Bahrain in February, giving teams limited time to refine their cars before the opening race.
The expanded grid marks a significant moment for the sport. Cadillac becomes Formula 1’s 11th team, while Audi enters as a full factory operation after taking over Sauber.
Formula 1 officials say the coordinated launch calendar highlights strong interest in the 2026 reset, which is expected to reshape competition and define the sport’s future direction.
