The countdown to Formula 1’s landmark 2026 season is well underway, with teams now entering the crucial phase of track testing for their new-look cars. Recent shakedowns have offered the first glimpses of the designs that will define the sport’s next era and provided early insights into the ambitions of both established constructors and newcomers.
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 in is rapidly taking shape. The American marque is currently utilizing Ferrari power units and gearboxes as it prepares its own engine facility near General Motors’ technical center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Team Principal Graeme Lowdon emphasized the team’s commitment to a competitive debut, stating, “We don’t just want to turn up and race, we want to be as competitive as we possibly can be.” The team has a facility near Silverstone and is building its main headquarters in Indianapolis, demonstrating a significant investment in its long-term F1 future.
At Silverstone, Sergio Perez recently had the honor of being the first driver to put miles on the Cadillac’s challenger. Returning to F1 with the American team, Perez expressed confidence in Cadillac’s potential, believing the team is “here to do great things.” The team is also drawing on the experience of Formula 1 legend Mario Andretti, who won the World Championship in and is offering guidance as Cadillac prepares to join the grid.
Meanwhile, Haas F1 Team is also progressing through its pre-season preparations. Team Principal Ayao Komatsu highlighted the positive impact of driver Ollie Bearman, noting his attitude as a valuable asset to the team’s aspirations. Bearman, entering his second full season in Formula 1, has set ambitious goals for himself, including race wins and future World Championships. The team recently completed a shakedown of its car, the VF-26, at Fiorano, with Bearman at the wheel, offering fans their first look at Haas’ latest design.
Mercedes is also deep into its development program for . Team Principal Toto Wolff, even amidst personal celebrations, is focused on nurturing the next generation of Mercedes drivers, particularly Kimi Antonelli, with the aim of developing him into a future race winner. The team recently conducted a shakedown of its car at Silverstone, with George Russell and Antonelli both getting behind the wheel. Technical Director James Allison and Head of Mercedes High Performance Power Trains, Hywel Thomas, were also present to assess the performance of the new car.
The Mercedes shakedown took place on a rainy day at Silverstone, providing a challenging environment for initial testing. After completing the first flying laps, George Russell offered his initial assessment of the car, while Antonelli expressed his gratitude to the entire team for their efforts in bringing the car to the track. Wolff himself acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the competitive landscape in , stating his curiosity about how the pecking order will ultimately shake out when the season begins.
These early shakedowns represent a significant milestone for all three teams, marking the transition from concept to reality. While these initial runs are primarily focused on systems checks and basic functionality, they provide valuable data and feedback that will inform further development. The teams are now entering a period of intense testing and refinement, as they strive to maximize performance ahead of the season opener.
The arrival of Cadillac adds a new dimension to the Formula 1 grid, bringing American investment and engineering expertise to the sport. Their partnership with Ferrari for power units and gearboxes in the short term allows them to focus on building a strong foundation for their long-term ambitions. The team’s commitment to establishing both a headquarters and a power unit facility in the United States underscores their dedication to becoming a fully integrated part of the Formula 1 landscape.
Haas, meanwhile, is looking to build on its existing experience in Formula 1 and leverage the talents of drivers like Ollie Bearman to achieve consistent results. The team’s focus on fostering a positive and ambitious environment suggests a renewed determination to compete at the front of the grid.
Mercedes, as a perennial contender, is aiming to maintain its position as a leading force in Formula 1. The development of young talent like Kimi Antonelli is crucial to their long-term success, and the team is investing heavily in its future. The season represents a new chapter for Mercedes, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the sport’s evolving regulations.
The “Back At Base” documentary series, produced by IMG for the BBC and hosted by Rosamund Pike, is providing an inside look at the preparations for the season. With co-hosts and executive producers Sarah Holt and Holly Samos leading the production, the series promises to offer fans a unique perspective on the complexities and challenges of building a Formula 1 team.
