The first details of the 2026 F1 launch plans are now locked in, and they already hint at how teams are approaching Formula 1’s biggest reset in decades. With new chassis rules, new power units and new partnerships arriving all at once, launch events are becoming carefully controlled moments rather than full technical reveals.
Most teams have opted for livery first presentations, using early events to establish identity, partners and branding, while keeping the true performance details hidden until pre season testing. Others are taking a more traditional approach, tying their launch directly to a full car reveal.
Confirmed 2026 launch dates
Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls | 15 January | Detroit
Red Bull and Racing Bulls were the first to confirm their plans, announcing a joint launch alongside Ford in Detroit. The event will focus on unveiling both teams’ 2026 liveries and marks the public beginning of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains era. While the cars themselves will not be revealed, the symbolism of launching in Ford’s home city sets the tone for the partnership.
Audi Revolut F1 Team | 20 January | Berlin
Audi will reveal its 2026 livery at a major launch event in Berlin, officially introducing the Audi Revolut F1 Team name and identity. The launch is designed as an immersive brand moment, with a public fan experience planned for the following day. Audi’s entry replaces Kick Sauber on the grid and represents one of the most significant manufacturer commitments ahead of the regulation overhaul.
Alpine | 23 January | Barcelona
Alpine will unveil the livery of its 2026 car in Barcelona, just days before the first on track running under the new regulations. After finishing at the back of the standings in 2025, the French team will be keen to reset expectations. Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto will continue as the driver pairing.
Haas | 23 January | online reveal
Haas will present its 2026 livery online on the same day as Alpine. The launch comes as the team enters a new chapter, with Toyota increasing its technical involvement. While the reveal will focus on branding, attention will also fall on how Haas positions itself going into the new cycle.
Cadillac | 8 February | Super Bowl
Cadillac will reveal the livery of its first Formula 1 car during Super Bowl coverage in the United States. Backed by General Motors, the team will become the grid’s eleventh entrant in 2026. Using one of the biggest global broadcast platforms underlines Cadillac’s ambition to make an immediate impact beyond the paddock.
Aston Martin | 9 February | full car launch
Aston Martin is currently the only team to confirm a full car reveal. The AMR26 will be launched on 9 February and will be the team’s first car influenced by Adrian Newey, alongside Honda power. Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll remain in place as Aston Martin prepares for what it hopes will be a step forward under the new rules.
Why 2026 launches look different
The dominance of livery only events reflects the scale of the 2026 reset. Teams are balancing commercial obligations, fan engagement and competitive secrecy more carefully than ever. With limited testing and entirely new technical concepts, few are willing to show their hand early.
Expect further announcements in the coming weeks, with some teams likely to hold back full car reveals until just before testing or even the opening race in Australia.
