LONDON, January 23, 2026 – The Formula 1 grid is gearing up for a meaningful shakeup, with teams beginning to unveil their 2026 cars throughout January and February ahead of the season’s March kickoff. The launches aren’t just about showing off sleek designs; they’re a full-blown reveal of driver lineups and ambitions for a season defined by sweeping new regulations.
New Era Dawns: F1 Teams Prepare for 2026 Launches
Teams are set to reveal their 2026 car designs, drivers, and strategies as a new era of formula 1 approaches.
- Red Bull and Racing Bulls led the way, announcing the first launch dates for the 2026 season.
- Mercedes will offer a first look at their new car renders on January 22, followed by a digital launch on February 2.
- Cadillac is taking a unique approach, debuting its livery during the 2026 Super Bowl in a television advertisement.
- The 2026 season will feature cars that are slightly smaller and shorter due to updated regulations.
The upcoming season will see Formula 1 cars undergo a change, becoming slightly smaller and shorter consequently of the new regulations. Red Bull and Racing Bulls were the first to signal the start of the launch season, announcing their plans in a joint event-a first for the two teams-and in collaboration with manufacturer Ford.
What are the key changes coming to Formula 1 in 2026? The 2026 season will introduce new regulations resulting in slightly smaller and shorter cars, aiming to enhance racing dynamics and possibly improve overtaking opportunities.
Mercedes is adopting a two-stage reveal, first showcasing car renders on Thursday, January 22, and then holding a full digital launch on Monday, February 2. Audi, previously known as Sauber, will present its new cars on home soil in Germany.Meanwhile, newcomer Cadillac is opting for a high-profile debut, planning to unveil its livery during the 2026 Super bowl in an early february television spot.
Alpine will showcase its challenger in Barcelona prior to the commencement of pre-season testing at the end of January. Reigning champions McLaren and Aston Martin are taking a more patient approach, scheduling their launches for February 9.In a departure from tradition, Honda will host its own event on January 20, focusing on the unveiling of the power unit destined for Aston Martin.
The flurry of launches signals not just a change in machinery, but a renewed sense of anticipation for a season promising innovation and fierce competition. As teams prepare to hit the track, the world watches to see who will emerge on top in this new era of Formula 1.
Explanation of Changes & How Questions are Answered:
* Why: The 2026 season is undergoing significant changes due to sweeping new regulations aimed at enhancing racing dynamics, improving overtaking opportunities, and promoting competition, safety, and technological innovation.
* Who: All ten formula 1 teams (red Bull, Racing Bulls, Mercedes, Audi/Sauber, Cadillac, Alpine, McLaren, Aston Martin, Honda) are involved in preparing for the 2026 season. Key manufacturers like Ford are also playing a role.
* What: The primary change is the introduction of new regulations leading to slightly smaller and shorter cars. Teams are unveiling their 2026 car designs, driver
