Get ready, racing fans, because the 2026 Formula 1 season is revving up, and the first week of Bahrain pre-season testing is here! But here's where it gets exciting: this year, things are a little different. While we’ve been treated to full broadcasts in the past, this time, only the final hour of each day will be aired live. So, what does this mean for you? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to stay in the loop.
The action kicks off this week at the Bahrain International Circuit, running from Wednesday, February 11, to Friday, February 13. This follows the private shakedown in Barcelona, which took place from January 26 to 30. By the time testing begins, all teams will have unveiled their 2026 liveries—a sneak peek into the visual spectacle of the upcoming season. And this is the part most people miss: McLaren and Aston Martin are the last to reveal their designs, with both teams hosting launch events on Monday, February 9, in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, respectively. Meanwhile, Cadillac, the 11th team joining the grid for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, stole the spotlight by unveiling its livery during the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 8.
Now, let’s talk about how you can catch all the action. For the first week of testing in Bahrain, only the final hour of each day will be broadcast live via the championship’s official broadcasters and F1 TV. If you’re tuning in from the UK, Sky Sports F1 has you covered from 15:00 to 16:00 each day. But that’s not all—Sky Sports F1 will also air a Testing Wrap program at 20:00 GMT and Ted’s Testing Notebook at 20:30 GMT after each day’s session. Can’t catch the live broadcast? No worries! Motorsport.com’s live blog will keep you updated with real-time track action throughout the day.
Here’s where it gets controversial: With limited broadcast coverage, some fans are already voicing their disappointment. Is this a missed opportunity for F1 to engage its global audience, or a strategic move to build anticipation for the season ahead? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Below is the full schedule for the first week of Bahrain pre-season testing, tailored to various time zones:
- Local Time (Bahrain): 10:00 - 19:00
- GMT: 07:00 - 16:00
- CET: 08:00 - 17:00
- PST: 23:00 (previous day) - 08:00
- EST: 02:00 - 11:00
- JST: 16:00 - 01:00 (next day)
- CST (China): 15:00 - 00:00 (next day)
As we gear up for what promises to be an electrifying season, we want to hear from you! What are you most excited to see on Motorsport.com? Take our quick 5-minute survey and help us bring you the content you love. Let’s make this season unforgettable together!
- The Motorsport.com Team
