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What to Expect as Formula 1 Prepares for the 2026 F1 Season

With the final chequered flag of 2025 now behind us, Formula 1 is already turning its attention to what promises to be one of the most transformative eras in modern racing.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
One of the most noticeable shifts for fans—particularly in the United States—will be how the sport is watched / Photo via F1
One of the most noticeable shifts for fans—particularly in the United States—will be how the sport is watched / Photo via F1

The cars will return to the circuit in just a few months when the 2026 F1 Season officially begins in Australia, ushering in sweeping changes across broadcasting, technology, team lineups, and the competitive landscape itself.

One of the most noticeable shifts for fans—particularly in the United States—will be how the sport is watched. Starting with the 2026 F1 Season, American viewers will follow every race on Apple TV after Formula 1 signed a landmark five-year broadcasting agreement. The deal, reportedly worth around $140 million annually, represents a significant increase over the previous ESPN contract and signals F1’s growing commercial strength and global appeal.

Starting with the 2026 F1 Season, American viewers will follow every race on Apple TV after Formula 1 signed a landmark five-year broadcasting agreement / Photo via F1
Starting with the 2026 F1 Season, American viewers will follow every race on Apple TV after Formula 1 signed a landmark five-year broadcasting agreement / Photo via F1

Formula 1 Reinvented

Broadcast changes, however, are only the beginning. The 2026 F1 Season will mark a major reset for the sport, bringing new teams, new manufacturers, and the most dramatic technical overhaul in years.

After seven straight seasons with ten teams on the grid, Formula 1 will expand to 11 entries with the arrival of Cadillac. The American manufacturer will be the only team starting entirely from the ground up, making its debut one of the most closely watched storylines of the season. Cadillac’s entry also reinforces Formula 1’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the U.S. market.

While Cadillac is the most prominent new name, it won’t be the only branding change in the paddock. Haas enters a new era with Toyota Gazoo Racing stepping in as its title sponsor, replacing MoneyGram. Meanwhile, McLaren has sold its naming rights to Mastercard, marking the team’s first such commercial arrangement since 2013 and reflecting the increasing value of F1 partnerships.

Engine partnerships will also look very different during the 2026 F1 Season / Photo via F1
Engine partnerships will also look very different during the 2026 F1 Season / Photo via F1

The Dawn of a New Grid

Engine partnerships will also look very different during the 2026 F1 Season. Sauber’s transformation into Audi’s factory team is one of the most significant developments. The Swiss outfit will transition away from Ferrari power units and begin producing its own engines, officially becoming a full works team. While this move brings long-term promise, the early stages may come with growing pains as Audi finds its rhythm in Formula 1.

Several teams will change engine suppliers as well. Ford makes its long-awaited return to Formula 1 for the first time since 2004, partnering with Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls. At the same time, Honda is stepping back into full manufacturer status after previously scaling down its involvement, becoming Aston Martin’s exclusive engine supplier as the team parts ways with Mercedes.

Technically, the 2026 F1 Season represents one of the boldest regulation resets in the sport’s history. Unlike previous overhauls that focused on either engines or chassis, the FIA has introduced sweeping changes to both. Cars will be lighter, shorter, and narrower, with a minimum weight of 1,693 pounds—66 pounds less than in 2025. Wheelbases will shrink by roughly eight inches, widths by about four inches, and tires will also become slimmer.

Technically, the 2026 F1 Season represents one of the boldest regulation resets in the sport’s history / Photo via F1
Technically, the 2026 F1 Season represents one of the boldest regulation resets in the sport’s history / Photo via F1

Livery presentation

As anticipation builds, teams will begin unveiling their new liveries early in 2026, offering the first visual glimpse into the future of Formula 1. 

  • Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls will reveal their cars on January 15.
  • Haas on January 19. 
  • Audi on January 20. 
  • Mercedes is scheduled for January 22.
  • Alpine and Ferrari both unveil on January 23. 
  • Williams will present its car on February 3.
  • Cadillac on February 8.
  • Aston Martin on February 9.

Key information

  • When does the 2026 F1 Season begin? In March 2026, starting in Australia.
  • Where can U.S. fans watch Formula 1 in 2026? Exclusively on Apple TV.
  • Which new team joins the grid in 2026? Cadillac becomes the 11th team.
  • What is the biggest technical change for Formula 1 in 2026? Lighter cars with reduced downforce and drag.

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