Atlassian Williams F1 Team today officially unveiled the racing livery for its 2026 challenger, the FW48, revealing a new look for the team in Formula 1’s all-new regulations era.

Drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz joined Team Principal James Vowles to present the striking design to the 1,200-strong workforce at Grove who have poured tens of thousands of hours into preparing for the season ahead.

The 2026 livery has been designed to match the team’s bold intent as it transitions to a new era as Atlassian Williams F1 Team, a name reflecting the team’s sole purpose to race and win at the pinnacle of motorsport.

The FW48 is flooded with a vibrant gloss blue, a colour that is unmistakably Williams and reflects the strength of our title partnership with Atlassian. This is contrasted with a flowing section of black, sweeping from the chassis side through to the rear of the car, which is framed by an iconic red and white keyline, a feature of championship-winning Williams cars like Nigel Mansell’s FW14B and Damon Hill’s FW18 which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

The most striking evolution of the livery comes from the introduction of white across the sidepod, front wing and rear wing – injecting energy and movement into the design and amplifying the presence of our partners across the car.

Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s new look was revealed hours after the announcement of a major new global partnership with Barclays, the latest vote of confidence in Williams’ determination to return to the front of the grid. Over the past fortnight the team has also welcomed Anthropic, BNY, Wilkinson Sword and Nuveen to the team, who all join our growing roster of world-class brands who are helping the team transform in pursuit of Championship success.

The livery has been custom designed around the new shape of F1 cars in 2026. New regulations mean the cars are shorter and narrower with significant changes to the front and rear wings, along with other aerodynamic surfaces designed for even closer racing. The entire team at Grove has been determined to push the boundaries of performance with the FW48, targeting the new regulations as an opportunity to take the next step on Williams’ journey back towards the front.

In 2026 Atlassian Williams F1 Team is looking to build on its most successful season for nine years. Last year the team finished fifth in the Constructors’ Championship with 137 points, secured podium finishes in Baku and Qatar, and took home its first-ever Sprint podium in Austin.

James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: 

“2026 is the next step on the path back towards the top for Atlassian Williams F1 Team as we enter a new era for the sport, and we are excited about the season ahead. We have a great driver line up, some fantastic new partners, an ever-growing fanbase and want to build on the success we tasted last year, but we are not naïve about the challenge ahead of us. Nobody quite knows what will happen at the first race but we are looking forward to finding out, and hope our fans will love cheering us on with this great new livery.”

Alex Albon, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: 

“It’s always special to see a new livery for the first time, and the FW48 looks incredible. The design really stands out, it’s bold, modern and unmistakably Atlassian Williams F1 Team. I can’t wait for the fans to see it on track and cheer us on in 2026.”

Carlos Sainz, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: 

“The FW48 livery is a real statement of our intent for 2026. The design celebrates Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s heritage while embracing a fresh, dynamic look for the new era. I’m excited to race in this livery and to share the thrill with fans around the world – their support makes all the difference as we continue on our journey together!”

Atlassian Williams FW48 Gallery

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Former Alpine driver Jack Doohan has been confirmed as Haas’ official reserve driver for the upcoming Formula 1 season, marking the next step in his bid to return to the grid.

Doohan made his Formula 1 debut with Alpine at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix before contesting the opening six races of the 2025 campaign with the Enstone-based squad. However, by round seven at Imola, Alpine opted to reshuffle its line-up, moving Doohan into a reserve role and promoting Franco Colapinto. Initially handed a five-race audition, Colapinto ultimately retained the seat for the remainder of the season and into 2026.

After parting ways with Alpine in January, Doohan explored opportunities outside of F1, including a prospective Super Formula drive with Kondo Racing. That move failed to materialise after the Japanese outfit instead signed Ukyo Sasahara, leaving Doohan searching for a new route to stay connected to the Formula 1 paddock.

That opportunity has now arrived at Haas, where Doohan will work alongside existing reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa. Hirakawa continues to balance his Formula 1 responsibilities with a full-time campaign in the World Endurance Championship, racing Toyota’s Hypercar programme.

“I’m thrilled to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team,” Doohan said. “It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula 1 career. I’d like to thank the team for the opportunity to grow and take on the challenge of 2026 together. I’m really looking forward to getting started and contributing to a successful season.”

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed the signing, highlighting both Doohan’s experience and motivation.

“I’m personally very excited to have Jack join us,” Komatsu said. “He brings a strong racing résumé and valuable experience as a reserve driver in Formula 1. Staying sharp and ready while fully integrating into a team is never easy, especially for a driver eager to race again at this level. I’ve enjoyed getting to know Jack, and we’re looking forward to benefiting from his contributions.”

Haas will head into the new regulatory era with continuity on race weekends, retaining Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman as its full-time drivers, as the team begins a new chapter in partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing.

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Repco is gearing up to deliver a variety of engaging activities and on-track excitement to fans at the 2026 Adelaide Motorsport Festival in Victoria Park from February 28–March 1.

Now into its third year as the naming rights partner of the Adelaide Motorsport Festival, Repco is ensuring that fans at the event will be well catered for, with both unique off-track and on-track activations.

The world-famous Repco-Brabham BT19 Formula 1 car will be among the stars of the event and will be driven by David and Sam Brabham.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the car that powered Sir Jack Brabham to victory in the 1966 Formula 1 Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships.

It remains the first and only time the championship-winning driver secured the title in a car of their own construction – a feat unlikely to ever be repeated. 

The car will be driven on track over the weekend and will also be on display for fans to inspect up close.

Australian-designed, the Repco-Brabham BT19 was built with the engineering talents of famed designer Ron Tauranac and Brabham himself. Repco designed, developed and produced its 3.0-litre V8 F1 engine in Melbourne, giving it the power necessary to become a groundbreaking machine.  

David and Sam Brabham, son and grandson of Sir Jack Brabham, will be central to the event’s celebrations, featuring in the Grand Marquee for a public Q&A session.

“Both Sam and I very much look forward to joining Repco at the Adelaide Motorsport Festival to celebrate one of Australia’s greatest sporting and engineering achievements. To drive the 1966 World Championship-winning Repco-Brabham BT19 around the AMF track will be a special moment for the family, especially this being Jack’s centenary year. 

“We look forward to meeting the fans and sharing this special 60th celebration with them”. – David Brabham.

Repco is also bringing back its popular Circuit Safari where sports and racing cars will venture onto the track alongside Repco’s Circuit Safari buses, which will be loaded with selected guests and competition winners. 

It’s the closest fans can get to the event’s racing rarities, and with the enjoyment of a tour guide!

A new initiative for the 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival is the Repco Beer Garden and Fan Zone.  

This is an open-air trackside space in the centre of the event with views across over half of the circuit. Tickets to the Repco Beer Garden are sold out for Saturday, with limited tickets remaining for Sunday.

The Fanzone, which can be accessed by all patrons with a general admission ticket, offers plenty of fun activities and giveaways.

The 2026 Repco Adelaide Motorsport Festival takes place at Victoria Park across the weekend of Saturday February 28 and Sunday March 1.

As F1 readies itself to enter its next generation, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team today (2 February) took the next step on the road to 2026 with its digital season launch event. Fans were treated to an in-depth overview of the team’s new car, the Mercedes-AMG F1 W17 E PERFORMANCE, along with hearing from senior personnel and drivers.

“2026 represents a decisive moment for our team and for the sport,” said Toto Wolff, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team CEO and Team Principal. “The upcoming season will be shaped by some of the most demanding technical regulation changes we have faced. These rules will test every aspect of our organisation, while also creating significant opportunities to innovate and set new performance benchmarks. We approach this next era with clear ambition, focused execution, and an uncompromising commitment to delivering results.”

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Power Unit and Fuel: The Next Generation of Hybrid Performance

At the heart of the W17 is Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrain’s (HPP) all-new hybrid Power Unit, created for the 2026 rules:

• A near 50:50 split between internal combustion and electrical power output.
• Removal of the MGU-H and a step-change in MGU-K capability from 120 kW to 350 kW, with new energy recovery and deployment strategies.
• Advanced sustainable fuel from PETRONAS, engineered as a drop-in solution to deliver performance with reduced lifecycle carbon impact, aligned to F1’s sustainability pathway.

The Power Unit has been tightly integrated with the W17’s cooling architecture and aerodynamics to ensure thermal robustness and energy efficiency in every phase of the lap-from high-recovery braking zones to long full-throttle running. The integrated Brackley-Brixworth approach has been a central theme of the team’s journey towards this next generation of F1.

Hywel Thomas, Managing Director of Mercedes AMG HPP, said: “The 2026 Formula One season marks an entirely new chapter- for the sport in general and particularly for those at the coalface of powertrain development. As Managing Director of Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains, I’ve never seen a challenge like this: new Power Unit architecture, sustainable fuels, greater hybrid emphasis-all converging at once together with a whole new car. It’s not merely an evolution; it’s a revolution.

“What distinguishes this era is the pace at which we must learn. The integration of advanced sustainable fuels, increased electrical hybridisation and newly defined energy deployment strategies demands a faster feedback loop. We can’t rely on long testing cycles to polish solutions; we must design, simulate, validate, and refine in tighter intervals. Efficiency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s mission critical – both on the dyno and the track.

Datuk Sazali, Executive Vice President and CEO Downstream, said: “Fuel is fundamental to performance in F1 as it powers every lap and every acceleration on track. For PETRONAS, the 2026 regulations have reinforced the need to formulate fuels differently, with performance, efficiency and sustainability designed together. Our bespoke advanced sustainable fuels are the result of years of formulation work and continuous engine testing, ensuring they meet the extreme demands of racing.

“What differentiates our approach is how we formulate the fuels, lubricants and fluids as one complete performance system. From PETRONAS Primax fuel to PETRONAS Syntium engine oil and PETRONAS Tutela hydraulic fluid, each formulation is purpose-built to unlock the car’s full potential. This reflects our long-standing role in motorsport, and our strong commitment in applying the learnings in F1 to help shape the next generation of fuel and fluid technologies.”


Chassis and Aerodynamics: Smaller, Narrower, Lighter

The W17 has been conceived around the new chassis regulations that set a shorter wheelbase (-200 mm), reduced width (-100 mm), and ~30 kg lower minimum weight. Active aerodynamics-movable front and rear wings – will help to balance drag and downforce across straights and corners. Other changes include narrower front and rear tyres to cut drag and mass, complementing the aero reset and revised suspension kinematics, plus the removal of the Drag Reduction System in favour of increased energy deployment with Boost and Overtake modes to provide good racing.

“The 2026 season represents a significant moment in the sport’s history. For those of us who live and breathe engineering, it’s both exhilarating and daunting in equal measure,” says the team’s Technical Director, James Allison. “This isn’t just a tweak to the regulations – it’s a wholesale transformation of almost every aspect of the car. Power Unit, chassis, aerodynamics, tyres: all are being changed at once.”

“We hope we have brought the necessary courage and commitment to make the project a success. We have made our best judgements during the design phase, and we will continue to innovate relentlessly now that the cars are running. Personally, I relish these moments. Regulation changes are the lifeblood of F1 advancements. They challenge every assumption and reward teamwork and ingenuity. They bring high levels of stress, but they also bring opportunity. If we emerge from this transition with a competitive car, it will be one of the most satisfying achievements imaginable.”

Identity: A New Look for a New Era
 
Having unveiled a tweaked team logo design featuring a cleaner, more refined look, the W17 sports a striking new livery; it marks this new era with a bold expression of identity and evolution. A dynamic PETRONAS green flow line anchors the design, sweeping low across the car to emphasise speed and precision while harmonising the transition from iconic Mercedes silver to the team’s deep black. The top of the sidepods feature the AMG-specific inspired rhombus signature, complementing the iconic Mercedes three-pointed star pattern on the engine cover.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has delivered a blunt message to rival Formula 1 manufacturers amid growing suspicions over a perceived power unit loophole, telling competitors to “get your s**t together.”

Mercedes, alongside the Red Bull–Ford power unit project, has found itself under scrutiny from rival manufacturers ahead of the new season, with concerns raised over how the upcoming 50–50 hybrid engines have been interpreted within the regulations.

At the centre of the debate is a regulation stating that compression ratios must be set at 16:1 in ambient temperatures. While other temperature ranges are not explicitly defined, both Mercedes and Red Bull have interpreted the rulebook as allowing higher compression ratios in hotter conditions, a position that has prompted pushback from competitors.

Red Bull publicly defended its stance during its launch last month, and Wolff was equally uncompromising when speaking to the media ahead of Mercedes’ 2026 season launch. He insisted the power unit is fully compliant, stating it “is legal” and “corresponds to how the regulations are written.”

The Austrian admitted frustration at the continued focus on the issue from rival teams.

“I just don’t understand why some teams concentrate more on others and keep arguing a case that is very clear and transparent,” Wolff said. “Communication with the FIA has been very positive all along. It’s not only about the compression ratio, but other areas as well.

“And specifically in that area, it’s very clear what the regulations say. The standard procedures are well defined, whether it’s Formula 1 engines or motors outside of F1.”

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Aston Martin Aramco has appointed 2009 Formula One World Champion Jenson Button as its new Team Ambassador ahead of the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship, adding one of the sport’s most respected modern figures to its growing project.

Button, the most recent British world champion to retire from Formula One, arrives with a career that spans multiple regulatory eras and manufacturers. Under a multi-year agreement, he will support the team’s media, partner and commercial activities as Formula One prepares for one of the most significant technical resets in its history.

The timing is notable. The 2026 season will introduce all-new power unit and chassis regulations and marks the beginning of Aston Martin Aramco’s works partnership with Honda, alongside long-term collaborations with Aramco and Valvoline. For Button, whose career has been closely linked with Honda, the move carries particular significance.

He claimed his first Formula One victory with Honda at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix and went on to secure the World Championship in 2009 during the manufacturer’s final season in the sport. More recently, Button added to his résumé by winning the Super GT Championship in Japan with Honda, reinforcing a relationship that has defined key moments of his racing career.

That continuity gives Button a rare perspective on how teams evolve through major regulation changes, experience that aligns closely with Aston Martin Aramco’s ambitions as it builds towards the next era.

Button’s appointment also sees him reunite with Fernando Alonso, his former McLaren team-mate during the 2015 and 2016 seasons, bringing together two world champions with first-hand experience of Formula One at its most competitive and most challenging.

Beyond the paddock, Button’s connection to Aston Martin runs deeper than the ambassador role. A long-time admirer of the marque, he owns and actively races a restored Aston Martin DB4, underlining a personal appreciation for the brand’s racing heritage and craftsmanship.

In his new role, Button will represent Aston Martin Aramco at key global events and across partner and media engagements, offering insight and credibility as the team continues to grow its international profile.

“Joining Aston Martin Aramco at such a pivotal moment for the team and the sport is hugely exciting,” Button said. “Honda’s return as a works partner was a major attraction, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience with them into this role. The 2026 season is going to be fascinating, and I can’t wait to see where this project goes.”

Aston Martin Aramco managing director of commercial Jefferson Slack added:

“Jenson is one of the most respected figures of his generation. His world championship pedigree, deep understanding of Honda, and ability to connect with fans make him a valuable addition as we head into Formula One’s next era.”

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On Thursday, January 29, the penultimate day of Formula 1’s first pre-season shakedown for 2026, a fuel system issue curtailed McLaren’s running as rivals Mercedes and Ferrari completed extensive programmes behind closed doors at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

McLaren, who made their first appearance of the week on Wednesday with reigning world champion Lando Norris giving the MCL40 its debut, handed driving duties to Oscar Piastri on Thursday. However, the Australian’s afternoon was cut short when the car developed a fuel system problem.

As a result, McLaren logged just 48 laps on the day, more than 100 fewer than both Mercedes and Ferrari, limiting their opportunity to gather data on the all-new car under the 2026 technical regulations.

“Unfortunately, a few issues today,” Piastri said. “We had a fuel systems issue which cut our day a bit short, but I know the team is working really hard to get that fixed and get us back out for as many laps as we can tomorrow.”

Despite the setback, Piastri welcomed his first taste of the MCL40. “It was nice to be back out, especially in a new car. There are a lot of new challenges for everyone this year up and down the grid, so it’s good to start working through some of them.”

Elsewhere, Mercedes impressed by topping the timing screens, while Ferrari also enjoyed a productive day. Aston Martin, meanwhile, finally joined the test after a delayed start, debuting their Adrian Newey-designed AMR26 during the session.

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Aston Martin has finally rolled out its first Formula 1 car developed under the guidance of legendary designer Adrian Newey, with the AMR26 making a late appearance during pre-season testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

The debut of the new machine had been delayed for reasons the team has not disclosed, but Aston Martin managed to send the car out for the final hour of running on Thursday. Lance Stroll completed just four measured laps before the car was brought to a halt on track, a decision the team described as “precautionary.”

Despite the limited running, the AMR26 immediately drew interest for its striking design. Sporting an all-black camouflage livery, the car’s nose, sidepods and engine cover stood out from many of its rivals seen so far under the new 2026 regulations.

Testing is being conducted behind closed doors with no independent media access, but images released by Aston Martin reveal a notably wide nose ,unusual for cars built to the latest rules, with a shape that has already prompted comparisons to a duck’s bill. The sidepods appear extremely slim with aggressive undercuts, the front suspension pick-up points sit unusually high on the chassis, and the engine cover is dramatically sculpted.

The car only arrived in Spain on Wednesday, with the team spending much of the day completing final preparations before running.

“It was a long day for all the mechanics and everyone in the team pushing flat out to get the car ready,” Stroll said. “We managed to get a few laps in at the end, and it felt good. Now it’s about learning the car and understanding where its strengths and weaknesses are.”

Fernando Alonso is scheduled to take over driving duties on Friday, the final day of this week’s test.

Newey, whose designs have delivered 14 drivers’ championships and 12 constructors’ titles across stints with Williams, McLaren and Red Bull since 1991, joined Aston Martin in March last year and has been focused on the 2026 project ever since.

The new car arrives amid sweeping regulation changes for Formula 1, with entirely new chassis, power units, tyres and fuels introduced for 2026. Aston Martin also begins a new chapter as Honda’s factory partner, ending the manufacturer’s long association with Red Bull, Newey’s former team and adding further intrigue to the AMR26’s early appearance.

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• Williams pulled out of the first F1 pre-season test in Spain after build delays and an earlier failed crash test
• James Vowles said the decision came from pushing performance “under the new regulations” and protecting Bahrain, Melbourne and beyond
• The team say the car has now passed all impact tests and they expect to be ready for Bahrain on 11 to 13 February

Williams says it was “incredibly painful” to miss the first Formula 1 pre-season test this week after failing to get their new car ready in time.

Team principal James Vowles said the call to withdraw from the Barcelona running was tied to the team’s approach for the new rules cycle, describing it as “the result of our determination to push the limits of performance under the new regulations”.

“It clearly wasn’t our plan, and it’s incredibly painful,” Vowles said. “If you want to transform at speed, you need to find the pain points and put them right very quickly, which is exactly what we’re doing.”

Vowles, who took over at Williams in 2023, has been leading Dorilton Capital’s attempt to lift the team back towards the front after years of underperformance and underinvestment. He described the car failing one of its mandatory crash tests before the withdrawal as “a blip in the grand scheme of things”.

He added that the car has now passed its impact testing, and said drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon “stand shoulder to shoulder with me”.

“They’re clearly, as I am, disappointed,” Vowles said. “They want to be out there testing the car, and whilst they’re in our driver and loop simulator in tandem now, to increase that programme, it isn’t the same.”

Vowles said the biggest issue was the factory struggling to meet the demand created by the build, calling it “more of an output than anything else, of pushing not just the boundaries of design but the boundaries of just simply how many components can be pushed through the factory in a very short space of time”.

He said: “The car we’ve built is about three times more complicated than anything we have put through our business beforehand.

“So, to put that in perspective, it means the amount of load going through our system is about three times what it used to be.

“And we started falling a little bit behind and late on parts. There are compromises you can make as a result of it.

“In addition to that, we have absolutely pushed the boundaries of what we’re doing in certain areas. And one of those is in certain corresponding tests that go with it.”

Despite missing Spain, Vowles said Williams are targeting the second pre season test in Bahrain on 11 to 13 February and explained why they chose not to force the Barcelona programme.

“We could have made Barcelona testing. Simple as that,” he said. “But in doing so, I would have to turn upside down the impact on spares, components, and updates across Bahrain, Melbourne, and beyond.

“And the evaluation of it was that for running in a cold, damp Barcelona, against doing a (rig) test, against the spare situation, and frankly, there was zero points for running in a shakedown test, we made the decision, and I stand by it, that the right thing to do is to make sure we’re turning up at Bahrain, correctly prepared, and prepared in Melbourne as well.”

Asked whether the car was significantly over the minimum weight limit, Vowles did not give a direct answer, saying it was not possible to respond to “murmurings in the media” because the only time the full picture becomes clear is when the car is assembled.

He also said he had “experts and specialists” working with Williams to improve factory operations.

There’s a specific smell that hangs over the first proper laps of a new F1 era. Fresh carbon, damp asphalt, and that faint whiff of panic when a dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree for no good reason. Barcelona’s private 2026 shakedown had all of it, and Charles Leclerc climbed out of Ferrari’s SF-26 sounding like a guy who’s finally been handed a clean sheet of paper.

Leclerc is “very excited” for 2026, and he’s openly talking about dragging Ferrari back to the top. After years where Ferrari’s promise has often arrived with an asterisk, this reset feels like the kind you can actually build a title run on, and that’s why everyone’s leaning in.

Leclerc climbs into an “all-new” Ferrari and you can hear the relief

Ferrari skipped Day 1 of the five-day Barcelona event and rolled out on Day 2, right on schedule, with Leclerc first to hit the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. If you’ve ever shown up late to something stressful to avoid the opening chaos, you get the vibe, and Ferrari essentially admitted as much by choosing their moment.

Leclerc described getting back in the car as returning to something “very, very all-new,” and he wasn’t doing PR poetry. 2026 brings a double reset, new chassis philosophy and new power unit rules, so even the basic instincts drivers rely on, braking references, corner commitment, energy deployment habits, get a hard reboot.

He also pointed out the conditions were messy, with rain in the morning, which makes those first laps feel like trying new shoes on an ice rink. Still, Ferrari ran their programme anyway, because this stage is about whether the thing works, not whether it’s fast, and anyone who’s watched a new-spec car cough through its first week knows how valuable that sentence is.

The first job: systems, checklists, and fewer hero laps

Leclerc was blunt about the priority: “we’re not focused on performance whatsoever.” That’s the kind of line that makes fans groan, because everyone wants lap times, but in the garage it lands like comfort food. When a regulation shift drops new hardware across the car, hydraulics, software logic, cooling layouts, energy storage behaviour, you start by asking the boring question: does it complete the lap cleanly?

I’ve stood at the back of a garage on a cold test morning listening to engineers argue over a sensor that reads 10 degrees too hot. The car looks fine, the driver looks fine, and yet the whole day gets paused because a single number is “wrong,” so Leclerc’s checklist talk isn’t filler. It’s how you avoid losing two months to a ghost problem that only appears after five consecutive push laps.

Ferrari’s plan, as he explained, is to work through preliminary checks, then gradually move toward what “matters most,” performance. If you’ve ever tried to tune a new TV and ended up stuck because the remote needed pairing, it’s that, except the remote is worth millions and it’s doing 300kph on a wet straight.

Why 2026 has Leclerc talking like a believer again

Leclerc’s big line is the one that matters for the championship story, 2026 is “a big opportunity for every team to do something different” and maybe gain a “bigger advantage” than we’ve seen recently. That’s code for a real shake-up, the sort that can flip the grid if you nail the concept early and your rivals waste time chasing the wrong idea.

You hear that tone when drivers sense a reset that suits their team’s strengths. For Ferrari, that’s huge, because the last few years have felt like chasing a moving target, sometimes quick, sometimes fragile, sometimes strategically self-sabotaging. A full regulation restart gives everyone permission to redraw the map, and Leclerc’s basically saying Ferrari intends to be the one holding the pen.

This is the first time in a while Ferrari’s 2026 narrative sounds like engineering confidence, not wishful thinking.

What’s actually new in the 2026 cars, and why it feels different behind the wheel

F1’s own technical explainer lays out why these cars look and behave differently. The ground-effect Venturi tunnels are gone, replaced by a flatter floor concept and a much larger diffuser, while the front wing is simplified and the “eyebrow” winglets above the front wheels disappear. That changes how downforce is generated and how “dirty air” gets managed, which matters every time a driver tries to follow through a fast corner.

The cars are also meant to be smaller and lighter. The rules aim for a minimum weight drop from 800kg to 768kg, with a shorter wheelbase and narrower floor, plus slimmer tyres and reduced overall tyre diameter. In plain terms, drivers should feel a car that rotates more willingly, like swapping a heavy backpack for a lighter one, and that sensation came through in early driver comments across the paddock.

From the cockpit side, RaceFans reported drivers describing less load in high-speed corners and more straight-line punch, plus a more predictable feel compared to the previous generation. If you’ve ever driven in heavy rain with stability control fighting you, then turned it off and suddenly felt the car “talk” again, that’s the sort of predictability they’re hinting at, and it’s a big deal for confidence on the limit.

Barcelona’s closed shakedown vibe: rain, secrecy, and early tells

This Barcelona running is officially labelled a “shakedown,” but everyone treats it like a test because track time is gold under a new rulebook. Teams can run three of the five days, so every lap feels like a bargaining chip, and the fact it’s behind closed doors only cranks up the paranoia and the gossip.

On Day 2, ESPN reported it was basically just Ferrari and Red Bull out there, with the weather putting off other teams. That makes the track feel eerie. Fewer cars, more empty silence between runs, and every mechanic’s head snaps toward the pit wall when an engine note changes.

Leclerc ran in the morning and then handed over to Lewis Hamilton in the afternoon, which is still a sentence you read twice because it sounds like a fantasy league glitch. Ferrari’s SF-26 had already done a brief public outing at Fiorano, but Barcelona was the first proper taste of test running against another front-running team sharing the circuit.

Red flags and reality checks: the early stuff always bites someone

The second day had the kind of interruption that feels inevitable during a new-era bedding-in phase. Isack Hadjar crashed for Red Bull late in the session, bringing out red flags, and the wider coverage noted wet conditions with intermediate tyres on show. A shakedown week always includes a moment where someone finds the limit before the car’s ready to catch them.

There was also an off for Max Verstappen that briefly triggered a red flag, but he escaped without damage, per ESPN. It’s classic early testing energy, drivers exploring braking and traction phases with unfamiliar aero balance, then suddenly discovering the gravel is closer than it used to be.

If you’ve ever watched a team silently roll a car back into the garage after a test-day nudge, you know the mood. Nobody shouts, nobody panics, but the laptop screens multiply and the coffee intake turns aggressive, and that’s where 2026 will be won or lost.

• Ferrari used Day 2 to confirm core systems on the SF-26 in wet conditions.
• Leclerc stressed checklists and functionality before any performance conclusions.
• Red Bull’s running was disrupted by Hadjar’s crash and a brief Verstappen off.
• Most teams sat out the rain-affected day, saving limited shakedown days for later.

“Bring Ferrari back to the top” is a heavy line, and Leclerc knows it

Leclerc didn’t hide from the emotional weight of Ferrari’s drought. “It’s been quite a few years,” he said, and that lands because Ferrari’s standard is brutal: anything short of championships feels like underachievement. You can hear the hunger in that phrasing, like a guy who’s tired of being told “next year” while watching others pop champagne.

I’ve seen Leclerc in the mixed zone after a tough weekend, polite but visibly boiling under the surface. This time, the tone is different. He’s excited to see what rivals “have in store,” which tells you Ferrari thinks they’ve built something worth comparing, rather than something they need to excuse.

And the broader context matters: 2026 is a regulation reset that invites bold concepts and punishes hesitation. Leclerc is basically saying Ferrari will push “at the maximum” regardless of where they start, because the teams that win new eras are the ones that commit early and keep iterating while everyone else argues about correlation.

Three takeaways from Leclerc’s 2026 message

Ferrari’s first Barcelona running wasn’t about lap time glory, but the tone around the SF-26 already feels sharper. Leclerc’s excitement reads like genuine belief, and 2026’s clean-sheet rules give that belief a real runway.

Key takeaways:

1) Leclerc left Barcelona Day 2 “very excited,” framing 2026 as Ferrari’s chance to return to the top, as reported at URL:.

2) Ferrari’s early focus is systems and reliability, with performance running coming later once the new hardware and software behave consistently.

3) The 2026 rule reset is already producing a different driving feel, and the rain-hit, incident-stopped Barcelona running shows how brutal the learning curve is going to be.

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Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar crashed in wet conditions on the second day of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Barcelona, bringing his running to an early end.

The 21-year-old Frenchman, who was promoted to Red Bull’s senior team for the 2026 season after just one year in Formula 1, lost control of his car at the fast final corner of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and hit the barriers.

The test is being conducted behind closed doors with no independent media access, and Red Bull has declined to comment publicly on the incident. However, eyewitnesses at the circuit reported that Hadjar was on his first flying lap on intermediate tyres, having just switched from full wets.

With the track still damp and light drizzle lingering, Hadjar spun and struck the barrier backwards.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies described the conditions as challenging but played down concerns over the crash.

“It was very tricky conditions this afternoon, so it’s unfortunate that it ended that way, but it’s part of the game,” Mekies said. “This comes after a very positive day yesterday in terms of the number of laps Isack completed, his learning curve, and the quality of his feedback to the engineers. We’ll do our best to repair the car and see what comes next.”

Prior to the incident, Red Bull had continued the encouraging momentum built on the opening day of the test. Four-time world champion Max Verstappen completed his first run in the new car during the morning session, briefly running off at Turn Five on his opening lap out of the pits before safely rejoining the track.

Under testing regulations, Red Bull is permitted only one additional day of running, having already used two of its allotted three days this week. Weather conditions limited on-track action Tuesday, with only Red Bull and Ferrari running, as teams are restricted to participating on three of the five available test days.

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McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has called on Formula 1 to be more transparent in explaining the technical details of the 2026 regulations, warning that the racing will look significantly different under the new rules.

The 2026 season will usher in what is widely regarded as the most extensive regulation overhaul in Formula 1 history. Cars will be smaller and lighter, while the power unit will feature an almost 50–50 split between internal combustion and electrical energy.

With electric power playing a much greater role, energy management will become a key performance factor. Drivers will need to balance harvesting and deployment, a dynamic that is further shaped by the introduction of ‘overtake mode’, a push-to-pass system that replaces DRS. The system allows drivers to deploy the maximum 350kW for longer periods, potentially creating scenarios where one car is aggressively deploying energy while another is conserving battery power.

Many within the paddock believe this will fundamentally alter how overtaking unfolds. Mercedes driver George Russell has suggested fans may see “overtakes in obscure locations,” while Williams team principal James Vowles noted that racing “will happen in a different way to what you’re used to now.”

Stella echoed those views, stressing that the complexity of the new regulations must be clearly communicated to fans to avoid confusion.

“It’s important that when overtaking happens and it may look strange that one car can pass another so easily, spectators understand why that was the case,” Stella said. “They need to be able to recognize situations where one car has a full battery and the car ahead is running low.”

He added that energy usage will become a visible and decisive variable in racing.

“The way the power unit is exploited as a racing and overtaking tool will be particularly important, and it needs to be communicated effectively to our audience.”

Stella also highlighted active aerodynamics as another major change arriving in 2026. Both front and rear wings will feature adjustable elements, switching between ‘straight mode’ available in designated zones, similar to DRS, and ‘corner mode’ as cars approach turns. In straight mode, the wings adopt a lower angle of attack to reduce drag, before returning to higher downforce settings for cornering.

“These concepts need to be clearly explained to fans,” Stella said. “What does it mean for energy consumption? You use much more energy if the wings aren’t opened. What does it mean for ride height? If the wings stay closed, the car runs lower, which can lead to grounding and bottoming, something fans may hear drivers talking about on the radio.”

Stella believes greater transparency will enhance the viewing experience rather than detract from it.

“The more we explain these elements to fans and spectators, the more engaged they will feel,” he concluded. “That understanding is key to maintaining the strong spectacle Formula 1 has delivered in recent years and one of the main reasons the sport has grown so dramatically in popularity.”

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Audi have officially launched their Driver Development Programme ahead of the manufacturer’s debut season as a full works team in Formula 1. The initiative will be led by former Formula 1 driver Allan McNish and forms a central pillar of Audi’s long-term strategy in the sport.

Designed to build a competitive Formula 1 operation through sustained investment in young talent, the programme will identify and support promising drivers from karting through the junior formula ranks, offering a structured pathway toward the pinnacle of motorsport.

Drivers selected for the Audi Driver Development Programme will receive comprehensive, world-class training through a tailored development framework. The programme will encompass on-track performance, driving and engineering development, as well as human performance, media training, and marketing education.

McNish brings extensive experience to his new role. Alongside his Formula 1 racing career, which included a season with Toyota in 2002, the Scot is a three-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and has held senior management roles in motorsport. He also has a long-standing association with the Audi brand.

“To be entrusted with identifying the cornerstones of the future Audi Revolut F1 Team is both an honour and a responsibility I take very seriously,” McNish said. “Audi’s identity is built on Vorsprung durch Technik, and that philosophy must apply just as much to our young drivers as it does to our cars.

“We are not simply searching for raw speed. We are looking for resilience, intelligence, and a team-focused mindset qualities that define a future Audi champion. Our aim is to create a pathway that transforms potential into precision and world-class performance. I’m excited to begin this work and identify the first generation of talent for this ambitious project.”

Audi Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley emphasized the strategic importance of the programme.

“Developing the champions of tomorrow is a cornerstone of our Formula 1 vision,” Wheatley said. “The Audi Driver Development Programme is a clear statement of our long-term commitment to nurturing young talent and our determination to be competitive at the highest level.

“With Allan McNish leading the programme, we have a director whose experience and values perfectly align with Audi’s ethos. Under his leadership, this initiative will play a vital role in our journey toward 2030, as we build a winning team and shape Audi’s future in Formula 1.”

The announcement follows Audi’s recent unveiling of its 2026 Formula 1 challenger, the R26, which was revealed during an immersive launch event in Berlin.

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Scuderia Ferrari HP today launched the SF-26, the car with which it will contest the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship, which gets underway on 8 March in Australia. It is the 72th different Formula 1 car built by the Maranello-based team. This year sees the introduction of new technical and sporting regulations, a veritable sea change for motor racing’s blue riband category. The main talking points are lighter cars, a fundamental rethink of aerodynamic concepts, and a new generation of power units. The launch took place today at Fiorano Circuit.

A new era. The SF-26 has been designed to meet the all-new regulations, prompting a complete rethink of the car’s architecture. The chassis abandons ground-effect aerodynamics in favour of a different approach, with cleaner lines and an overall philosophy focused on reducing weight and improving efficiency, in line with the objectives set by Formula 1 for these regulations. The power unit is also a major step forward: a new hybrid generation, eliminating the MGU-H and boosting the MGU-K to 350 kW, further increasing the contribution of the electric system. This required a completely new design approach and close integration between chassis and power unit.

Design, colour, and identity. In line with the new regulations, the SF-26 features cleaner, more streemlined lines, with proportions that convey a greater sense of lightness and agility. From the earliest stages, the designers focused on functional simplicity, creating a robust and flexible concept, ready to be developed throughout the season as more data is acquired from the track. The season’s livery connects Ferrari’s past, present, as the team moves into the new technical era. It serves as the main visual element of continuity while also introducing significant updates compared with the recent history of Scuderia Ferrari HP. One of the most distinctive features is the return to gloss paint, after seven seasons of matte finish. The 2026 Rosso Scuderia colour is brighter and more intense, with a bold, striking look inspired by the special livery seen at Monza in 2025. The colour also maintains continuity with the red used around the turn of the millennium, reaffirming Ferrari’s core values of passion, courage, and identity. Alongside the red, the white, historically used sparingly but distinctively, takes on a new role. Positioned around the cockpit area and on the engine cover, it creates a strong, balanced visual contrast, making the car instantly recognisable. Together, red and white define a balance that goes beyond colour alone: a dialogue between established roots and a forward-looking vision, in which the historic identity of Scuderia Ferrari HP continues to evolve to meet new technical and sporting challenges.

Driver kit. The 2026 race suits also reflect the visual identity of this new chapter. Red remains, of course, the dominant colour and the unmistakable symbol of the Scuderia, while white plays a distinctive role, deliberately linked to the team’s past: it appears across the shoulders and wraps around the collar. This balance of colour underscores Ferrari’s blend of tradition and innovation, and will accompany the Ferrari drivers around the world throughout the season.

Looking ahead to the 2026 season. With testing set to begin next week, followed by two sessions in Bahrain, focus now shifts from the design phase to understanding the car on track. In a completely new technical context for everyone, Ferrari’s approach will remain the same as ever: methodical work, attention to detail, and thorough data analysis, aimed at making controlled and solid progress.

Fred Vasseur, Team Principal

“The SF-26 marks the beginning of a new era for both Formula 1 and Ferrari, with new regulations introduced in the same year for the chassis and the power unit, as well as new fuels and new tyre sizes. This car is the result of a tremendous team effort and represents the start of a completely new journey, built around a different set of rules that inevitably brings a number of unknowns. The team is aligned and more united than ever as we look ahead to the season. From next week in Barcelona, we will begin the process of understanding and validating the car. In this initial phase, the priority will be to learn as much as possible and to start building solid foundations ahead of the opening race.“

Loïc Serra, Technical Director Chassis

“Developing the SF-26 required us to adapt to a completely new regulatory framework. We dedicated significant time to the concept phase to capture as much of possible of the new regulatory & technical context. We also had to ensure that the car’s architecture would allow us enough flexibility for in season development. In this environment, efficiency and the integration of features like active aerodynamics are crucial. The SF-26 represents a major collaborative effort from the entire team at the factory, and we are looking forward to starting the season.“

Enrico Gualtieri, Power Unit Technical Director

“Under the 2026 regulations, the power unit becomes a more integral part than ever in the overall car concept. The significantly increased role of the electric component, the introduction of 99% sustainable fuel and the removal of the MGU-H represent a clear shift in philosophy, rather than a simple evolution compared with the 2014 to 2025 era. This required us to rethink the architecture of the power unit from the very beginning, focusing on efficiency, integration and energy management, always in close collaboration with our colleagues in the chassis department. It is a complex technical challenge, which we have approached with great respect and discipline, with the objective of optimising the entire car system as the season progresses.“

Charles Leclerc #16

“The 2026 regulations demand an even higher level of preparation, particularly for us drivers. There are many new systems to understand and optimise, which is why we have been heavily involved from the early stages of the project’s development. During my time with Scuderia Ferrari HP we have already experienced major regulatory changes together, so we know how complex this challenge can be, but we are working with a lot of motivation to arrive on track as well prepared as possible. Energy management and the power unit will be among the most significant aspects – a fascinating challenge which will require us drivers to adapt quickly, relying more on instinct to begin with, and then increasingly on precise data. The support of the fans will be especially important this season: it is what makes Ferrari so unique and pushes us to give our very best.“

Lewis Hamilton #44

“The 2026 season represents a huge challenge for everyone, probably the biggest regulation change I have experienced in my career. When a new era begins everything revolves around development, growth as a team, and moving forward in the same direction. As a driver, being involved from the very start in the development of such a different car has been a particularly fascinating challenge, working closely with the engineers to help define a clear direction for it. It will be an extremely important year from a technical perspective, with the driver playing a central role in energy management, understanding the new systems and contributing to the car’s development. It is a challenge we face together as a team, supported by the extraordinary passion of Ferrari’s tifosi, which means so much to all of us.“

SF-26 Technical Specifications

Chassis
Chassis made from carbon fibre composite honeycomb, with halo protection for the cockpit
Bodywork and seat in carbon fibre
Longitudinal Ferrari gearbox with 8 forward gears and reverse
Hydraulically controlled rear differential
Brembo ventilated carbon discs (front and rear) with electronically controlled
rear brakes
Push-rod front and rear suspension
Weight including coolant, oil and driver: 770 kg
18” front and rear wheels

Power unit
Turbocharged engine
Name: 067/6
Cubic capacity: 1,600 cc
Turbocharging: single turbocharger
Maximum turbocharger speed: 150,000 rpm
Maximum fuel energy flow: 3,000 MJ/h
Configuration: 90° V6
Nr cylinders: 6
Bore: 80 mm
Stroke: 53 mm
4 valves per cylinder
Direct injection, max 350 bar

ERS System
Configuration: hybrid energy recovery system with single electric motor generator (MGU-K)
Battery pack: lithium-ion batteries, minimum battery pack mass including control
electronics of 35 kg
Battery capacity: 4 MJ max SOC delta, 9 MJ max energy during charging
Max operating voltage: 1,000 V
MGU-K power: 350 kW
MGU-K maximum rpm: 60,000

SF-26 Photo Gallery

BWT Alpine Formula One Team set its sights on the 2026 season at the heart of the MSC World Europa during its official launch in Barcelona (Spain).

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for BWT Alpine Formula One Team,” said Flavio Briatore.

“It is with immense pleasure that we launch our campaign in Barcelona, ​​with our partner MSC Cruises, aboard the MSC World Europa. We are preparing for what will undoubtedly be a unique season in the history of Formula 1. This will be especially true for our team, as the new regulations offer a clean slate and a fantastic opportunity to be more competitive than in recent years.”

“The last few months have been particularly intense at the Enstone factory preparing for the season, designing and developing the A526 in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG, which is supplying the new powertrain and gearbox from this year onwards. We are truly excited about this partnership.”

“It’s simply fantastic to be surrounded by so many partners, including our Title Partner BWT, our hosts MSC Cruises and our Premium Partner Eni, to unveil our livery. I thank them all, both long-standing and new partners, for their commitment to the team, especially after our challenges on the track last year.”

All Aboard!

The event held aboard the MSC World Europa was truly unique. On Monday, the ship departed Civitavecchia, near Rome, Italy, and, like all the teams, set sail for Barcelona, ​​where the official Formula 1 shakedown will begin this Monday, January 26. This will be the first real opportunity to see the A526 in action.

The team unveiled its colors and all its partners for the season in the impressive Panorama Lounge, a theatrical space with floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of a magnificent natural landscape. Partners, both long-standing and new, gathered there with international media to launch this campaign, which faces a significant degree of uncertainty due to the new regulations for chassis and powertrains.

The project

The A526 is a completely new single-seater, from front to rear, including the chassis and power unit. Its dimensions and weight have been significantly reduced: 200 mm shorter, 100 mm narrower, and a total weight reduction of 30 kg.

“The past year in Formula 1 has been absolutely exceptional,” explains David Sanchez, Executive Technical Director. “With this regulatory revolution, this project represented an exciting challenge, to which we have fully dedicated ourselves.”

“The car is shorter and narrower than those of recent years, with greater aerodynamic freedom. We have active aerodynamics again, which allows us to have movable wings at the front and rear, a new feature for the vast majority of current drivers. The reduction in downforce and drag should make the races even more competitive, which is sure to captivate the fans.”

“We also have more electric power in the powertrains with our partnership with Mercedes-AMG for 2026. It has been fantastic working closely with our new colleagues in Brixworth over the past few months and weeks to understand together how best to optimize everything.”

“In addition to the challenge posed by the powertrain and 100% sustainable fuels, we will have to familiarize ourselves with new terminology since overtaking, boost, and recharging modes will all be part of our vocabulary starting this year.”

“The entire Enstone team is looking forward to being in Barcelona next week, where we will have a lot to learn and understand about the A526.”

Everything is still to play for

Pierre Gasly begins his tenth season in Formula 1, his fourth with Alpine. The Frenchman scored 100% of the team’s points in 2025, reached Q3 ten times, and approaches this new campaign with optimism.

“This is the first time in my career that the entire car has undergone such profound changes,” says Pierre.

“Of course, everyone is in uncharted territory, but I find it extremely stimulating as a driver. For the team, it’s been a long road to get here. We worked extensively in the simulator last year to prepare for these new regulations, and I know the entire Enstone team has put in considerable effort to develop the best possible package.”

“What we see from the shakedown next week will be interesting, but these won’t be the final cars. We’ll continue to learn and develop the package every time we take to the track.”

“I’m not setting any specific goals. We’ll have to work tirelessly with the team to identify areas for improvement. We’ll move forward day by day, trying to be as competitive as possible throughout the year. I’m obviously enthusiastic and optimistic, but also realistic about my ambitions. Today, I feel immense pride above all in seeing the team reach all its milestones in the preparation of the A526.”

Franco Colapinto is also approaching 2026 with positivity and is preparing to continue his progression to the top of motorsport by competing in his first full season in Formula 1.

“Above all, I am extremely enthusiastic,” adds Franco.

“For the first time in my career, I was able to benefit from a real off-season to best prepare myself for a full season, right from the first tests and the first race. This is very important to me, because I feel really involved in the project and it allows me to work hard from the outset with the whole team.”

“We had the opportunity to discover the car and prepare in the simulator. Of course, it’s very different from anything I’ve experienced before, and I think that’s the case for most of the drivers on the grid. There are new subtleties to master and new challenges to overcome to extract the maximum from the package, and I find that exciting.”

“I know the whole team is extremely motivated to have a good season. I’m going to try to learn as much as possible during the first few races and continue to improve. I hope that this will allow us to be competitive as a team.”

Paul Aron completes the lineup alongside Pierre and Franco for his second season as a reserve driver.

“I am delighted to be part of this new era of Formula 1 and I can’t wait to learn as much as possible,” said the Estonian.

“In my role as reserve driver, it will be crucial to quickly learn the new systems and spend a lot of time in the simulator to help the team progress rapidly. It’s an exciting opportunity and I can’t wait for the season to start.”

With his first official tests with the A525 last December in Abu Dhabi, Kush Maini will still be a member of the Alpine Academy, competing in the FIA ​​Formula 2 Championship and a reserve driver within the team’s talent pool.

Step by step

Earlier this week, the team completed a shakedown test, allowing them to verify the new systems for the first time and validate the new car at Silverstone. The team then traveled directly to Barcelona for the official Formula 1 shakedown starting on Monday, before heading to Bahrain for two three-day test sessions in February. All eyes will then turn to the start of this highly anticipated season on March 8 in Melbourne, Australia.

“It’s quite rare to see changes of this magnitude, capable of disrupting the hierarchy of our sport,” concluded Flavio Briatore. “We’re taking it step by step. We don’t know where we’ll stand in the first race, let alone the last.”

“Development will be crucial, and the ability to understand and learn how to best utilize the package on each circuit will make all the difference. We know it’s a long road, but we’re eager to get there.”

“Pierre and Franco’s thirst for success is palpable. Last year wasn’t easy for anyone, least of all for them, and it’s our duty to provide them with the car that will allow them to fully express their talent at the front.”

Last night, during its prize-giving ceremony at the Autosport Awards, the all-female racing series, F1 ACADEMY, unveiled a refreshed brand identity for 2026 and beyond, marking a shift in pace as the series enters its fourth season.

The dynamic new look, featuring an updated logo, a distinctive ‘accelerator’ brand icon, an elevated colour palette, and an energised design language, reflects the series’ progression and the tangible impact that it’s having on the next generation of racing talent. Together, these new design elements capture the energy and vision that fuel the series’ ethos of high stakes, higher drive.

Season Four of F1 ACADEMY promises to be the most thrilling yet, with a seven-round calendar alongside the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Fans can expect incredible on-track action, purpose-driven brand partnerships and new ways to engage with the series. The refreshed brand identity will come to life through digital platforms, broadcast coverage, merchandising, and at F1 ACADEMY race weekends.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1

“F1 ACADEMY has gone from strength to strength and achieved so much in just three years, nurturing talent from the grassroots up, growing global awareness, and breaking down barriers. This new brand identity defines the series as it moves forward, welcoming the next generation of drivers and fans to F1, backed by the commitment of the teams, race promoters and partners. F1 ACADEMY has demonstrated the value it brings to our sport, both on and off the track, and I know it will continue to grow and succeed.”

Susie Wolff, Managing Director of F1 ACADEMY

“For year four, we’re stepping up a gear. In just three seasons, we’ve built real momentum, earned global visibility, and challenged outdated perceptions of who belongs in our sport. F1 ACADEMY has cemented its place on the racing ladder and is already shaping the next generation of talent. Today, we unveil a bold new identity that reflects our ambition and the change we’re driving to help shape the future of our sport.”

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The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has today (22 January) unveiled the first images of its 2026 car, the Mercedes-AMG F1 W17 E PERFORMANCE. It marks the latest step in the team’s journey towards the next generation of F1.
 
The 2026 season sees the biggest technical shake up in the sport’s history, with all-new chassis, Power Unit, and fuel regulations. The W17 is therefore smaller, narrower, and lighter than its predecessor. It features active aerodynamics with moveable front and rear-wings, an engine that produces close to a 50/50 split between electric and combustion power, and runs on advanced sustainable fuels developed by the team’s Title and Technical Partner, PETRONAS.
 
The W17 also features a striking new livery which marks a bold expression of identity and evolution. A dynamic PETRONAS green flow line anchors the design, sweeping low across the car to emphasize speed and precision while harmonising the transition from iconic Mercedes silver to the team’s deep black. The top of the sidepods feature the AMG-specific inspired rhombus signature, complimenting the iconic Mercedes three-pointed star pattern on the engine cover.
 
Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO, said: “Formula One will undergo significant change in 2026, and we are prepared for that transition. The new regulations demand innovation and absolute focus across every area of performance. Our work on the new car, and the long-term development of the Power Unit and advanced sustainable fuels with PETRONAS, reflects that approach.
 
“Releasing the first images of the W17 is simply the next step in that process. It represents the collective, sustained effort of our teams in Brixworth and Brackley. We will continue to push hard in the months ahead.”

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Goodwood is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration this summer, as the Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard prepares to welcome Damon Hill, marking 30 years since his 1996 Formula 1 World Championship with Williams.

A true icon of British motorsport, Hill remains one of Britain’s most respected racing drivers, having cemented his place in Formula 1 history with 22 Grand Prix victories as well as making history as part of the first father-son duo to both claim the World Championship title.

This year’s Festival of Speed will reunite Hill with some of his career-defining cars, as The Duke of Richmond invites fans to join Goodwood in celebrating the motorsport maestro with a dedicated balcony moment on Saturday 11 July.

Indeed, Goodwood is delighted to be celebrating one of its greatest friends and supporters. For many years, Hill has been an integral part of the Estate’s motorsport events, showcasing cars from his career on the hillclimb at the Festival of Speed and racing at Revival.

The Duke of Richmond, CBE DL said: “I couldn’t be happier that Damon is joining us at this year’s Festival of Speed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of his World Championship. He has been a phenomenal supporter of everything we do at Goodwood, and indeed has been a patron of the Festival of Speed since the first event in 1993. Too often he is here to lend his support as we celebrate other people, so I am delighted that this time the spotlight will be deservedly on him. I know our fans will join me as we come together to celebrate the amazing career of one of Britain’s most enduringly popular World Champions.”

Damon Hill said: “I’m very much looking forward to celebrating the 30th anniversary of my World Championship at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year. Goodwood has always been a special place for the Hill family – my parents came to nearby Bognor Regis for their honeymoon in 1955 because my father was racing in the Nine Hour race the same weekend, and I have been a patron since the very first Festival of Speed in 1993. Goodwood’s fans are some of the most passionate in the world, and it will be a real privilege to share my anniversary with such an appreciative audience.”

Audi have officially unveiled their first-ever Formula 1 car, marking the milestone with a spectacular launch event at Berlin’s iconic Kraftwerk power station.

The German manufacturer, which announced its intention to enter Formula 1 in August 2022, will make its Grand Prix debut in Australia. The car will be powered by Audi’s own inaugural Formula 1 power unit, underlining its commitment as a full works entrant.

To celebrate its arrival on the sport’s biggest stage, Audi hosted an ambitious launch in the heart of the German capital. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner was joined by Head of the Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto, Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, and drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, who raced together last season.

Audi, renowned for its success across multiple motorsport disciplines revealed the R26, featuring a striking titanium, carbon fibre, and lava red livery that was first teased at a Munich event last November.

Despite their ambitious goals, Audi are acutely aware of the scale of the challenge ahead in Formula 1.

“Today marks more than a launch; it is the public declaration of a new era for Audi,” said Döllner. “Formula 1 is the most demanding arena in motorsport, and we are here not merely to compete, but to shape the future of Vorsprung durch Technik.

“This project is a catalyst for our entire company and a symbol of our transformation toward a more performance-driven, efficient, and innovative culture. Our commitment is absolute and long-term.

“We understand that success in Formula 1 requires relentless perseverance. Audi Revolut F1 Team is not here to make up the numbers, we are targeting World Championship contention by 2030.”

Earlier this month, Audi became the first team to run a 2026-spec car during a filming day in Barcelona. Following the Berlin launch, the team will return to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for Shakedown Week, where all 11 Formula 1 teams will be permitted three days of running.

Mattia Binotto highlighted the strategic advantage of Audi’s full works approach.

“Our decision to enter Formula 1 as a complete works team is our greatest strength,” Binotto said. “Over the past few years, we have not only developed our power unit in Neuburg, but also built the foundations of a unified technical organisation, connecting our chassis operations in Hinwil and Bicester.

“This integration gives us full control of our development path, removing compromises and allowing the agility and innovation required to succeed. From the engine block to the front wing, Audi Revolut F1 Team operates under a single vision, this is how championships are built.”

Jonathan Wheatley, who joined the Hinwil-based squad after nearly two decades at Red Bull, echoed those sentiments.

“This car represents thousands of hours of work by an incredibly talented group of people across our facilities,” Wheatley said. “We begin this journey with immense pride, but also with humility. This is only day one of a long campaign.

“Our objective is to embed a championship mentality into every aspect of the team, built on resilience, precision, and relentless curiosity. We are committed to getting stronger with every lap, every debrief, and every race.”

Veteran Nico Hülkenberg will once again partner Gabriel Bortoleto, continuing a pairing that showed promise last season. Hülkenberg secured his maiden Formula 1 podium, while Bortoleto recorded five points finishes during an impressive rookie campaign.

“After many years in the paddock, you learn to tell the difference between ambition and real capability,” said Hülkenberg. “What I sense here is a deep seriousness of purpose and an energy that truly stands out.

“We are a genuine works team with a clear long-term vision, backed by significant resources and world-class expertise. Being part of Audi’s journey from the very beginning is incredibly exciting, and I can’t wait to take this car to the track in Melbourne.”

Bortoleto added:

“Racing for the Four Rings, one of the most iconic brands in motorsport, is a dream come true. You grow up hearing about Audi’s dominance at Le Mans and in rallying, and to now represent that legacy in Formula 1 is an unbelievable honour.

“I feel the responsibility, but even more so the motivation to learn, push, and grow alongside this team. I am ready to give everything I have to help write this next chapter for Audi Revolut F1 Team.”

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Mercedes chief designer John Owen will leave the team later this year.

The 52-year-old has been part of the organisation since 2007, when it competed under the Honda name, and played a key role in its championship successes as Brawn GP in 2009 and as Mercedes from 2010 onwards.

During his tenure, the team won both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles as Brawn, followed by seven drivers’ championships and eight constructors’ championships as Mercedes between 2014 and 2021.

In a statement, Mercedes said Owen would depart “after ensuring a smooth transition to his successor” and would then enter a period of gardening leave. No details were given regarding his next career move.

Engineering director Giacomo Tortora will take over as director of car design, reporting to deputy technical director Simone Resta.

Before joining Honda, Owen worked at Swiss-based Sauber, where he became senior aerodynamicist in 2004. He began his career at the now-defunct racing car manufacturer Reynard.

From F1 news to tech, history to opinions, F1 Chronicle has a free Substack. To deliver the stories you want straight to your inbox, click here.

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New to Formula 1? Check out our Glossary of F1 Terms, and our Beginners Guide to Formula 1 to fast-track your F1 knowledge.