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Isack Hadjar tops Barcelona test as Red Bull, Mercedes fly while Audi, Cadillac struggle in 2026 debut
Seven teams test radically redesigned cars under new 2026 Formula 1 rules at Barcelona's private Circuit de Catalunya, preparing for official Bahrain tests and the March season opener.
- Seven teams hit the track Monday at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya during Formula 1's five-day private shakedown Jan 26-29, with Cadillac running and Aston Martin absent.
- Because the 2026 rules overhaul changed engines and aerodynamics, teams used the private Barcelona slot to evaluate radically different cars and power units within a five-day window limited to three running days.
- Aston Martin's programme, backed by Lawrence Stroll, poured investment into a new Silverstone factory, signed Honda as engine partner, installed Adrian Newey, and Alonso fronts the project, though sources warned integration may be challenging while Williams confirmed skipping Barcelona after falling behind on its car build.
- The regulation change makes the early pecking order more intriguing as teams head toward the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, while missing Barcelona running is not decisive with two Bahrain tests available.
- Looking to February, the official Bahrain tests for Feb. 11-13 and Feb. 18-20 will be more representative, with Sky Sports F1 broadcasting the final test live and ESPN covering on the ground.
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54 Articles
54 Articles
The Mexican completed only 11 laps, spoke of multiple mechanical problems and assured that the new Formula 1 singles are “radically different.”
derwesten.deReposted by 
news38.de
news38.deThis is extremely bitter for Audi! At the Formula 1 tests in Barcelona there is the first setback for the team.
·Germany
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The eleven teams have to adapt their cars to meet the new regulations this season.
·Montreal, Canada
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Total News Sources54
Leaning Left5Leaning Right2Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution46% Left
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources lean Left
46% Left
L 46%
C 36%
R 18%
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