When does Formula 1 start: these are the key dates for the 2026 season
The Formula 1 season will kick off in March 2026, following official testing sessions for the teams and drivers.
The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to begin in March, following a series of official testing sessions at the Bahrain International Circuit. All eleven teams with their 22 drivers are currently making final adjustments to their new race cars, preparing for the upcoming competition. The official race weekend is slated to take place at Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, Australia, from March 6 to March 8, which is also where the previous yearβs season commenced.
The 2026 season will feature a total of 24 races, maintaining the same number as seen in 2025, marking an exciting continuation for the championship. The initial race at Albert Park holds significant importance as Lando Norris from McLaren won there last year, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead. Fans and teams alike are eager to see if Norris can challenge defending champion Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing for the title this year.
With the increasing popularity of Formula 1 worldwide, the upcoming season promises to draw in large audiences, both at the circuits and via broadcasting. As teams finalize their strategies and compete in testing, the anticipation for close races and potential upsets continues to build, suggesting a thrilling season of motorsport in 2026.