F1 testing begins in Bahrain with new tech and new rules to contend with

Formula 1 testing began in Bahrain on Wednesday (February 11, 2026) as preparations for the new season gather pace.

Teams will be given around eight hours of track time as drivers get to grips with the cars they’ll be racing during the 2026 campaign with changes to technology and rules.

The reliability of the cars will be put to the test over a total of six days on the track over the next two weeks, with the first race of the season taking place in Australia next month.

These tests could be crucial, given the sweeping changes to cars this year making them shorter, narrower and lighter. It’s all to do with aerodynamics, with narrower tyres and changes to the wings and floors of the cars.

There is an “overtake” button, which can be used when cars are within one second of the vehicle in front. F1 says it gives drivers “access to extra electrical energy”.

The maximum power button has been renamed the “Boost” button.

Engines are now about a 50-50 split between petrol and electric, which F1 says makes them “more road relevant”.

McLaren driver Lando Norris won his first Formula 1 title last season. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen posted the best time of the morning session with 1m 35.433s.