Formula 1 teams arrive in Bahrain as 2026 pre-season testing marks start of new era

Formula 1 drivers and teams have begun arriving at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir ahead of the 2026 pre-season testing, a crucial phase that signals the beginning of a new era for the sport.

The Bahrain tests are particularly significant this year due to major technical regulation changes and the debut of Cadillac as the 11th team on the grid, expanding the championship lineup for the first time in years.

Bahrain pre-season testing schedule

Pre-season testing will be split into two three-day sessions in February, with cars running daily from 10:00am to 7:00pm local time.

• Test 1: February 11–13, 2026

• Test 2: February 18–20, 2026

According to the official Formula 1 schedule, both sessions will offer teams extended track time to evaluate performance, reliability, and adaptability under the new regulations.

Key driver and team updates

Several leading drivers have already been spotted arriving in Bahrain, including Lando Norris (McLaren), George Russell (Mercedes), and Sergio Pérez (Cadillac). The spotlight is firmly on Cadillac’s Formula 1 debut, with the American outfit completing a filming day at the circuit on February 9, 2026. Drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez ran the car for the first time while unveiling the team’s official livery. Cadillac will compete with Ferrari power units in its inaugural season.

Reigning constructors’ champions McLaren also revealed their 2026 challenger, the MCL40, during a special launch event in Bahrain on the same day. All 11 teams will take to the track together for the first time during the Bahrain tests, including Williams, who opted out of the earlier private shakedown in Barcelona.

Fan access and broadcast details

Fans will be allowed to attend the test sessions on:

• February 12–13

• February 19–20

Broadcast coverage will be limited during the first test, with only the final hour of each day shown live. Full-day live coverage will be available on Sky Sports F1 during the second test from February 18 to 20.

Tickets for public attendance are available via the Bahrain Grand Prix official website.