F1 2026 car launches are set to kick off one of the most important pre-seasons in Formula 1 history. With sweeping regulation changes affecting both chassis and power units, the upcoming launch season offers the first real glimpse into how teams are approaching a new era of the sport.
These reveals are not just about colour schemes. They are the first public signals of how teams are approaching a completely new era. From Audi’s long awaited debut to Cadillac’s Super Bowl moment and Ford’s return with Red Bull, the 2026 launch calendar offers an early look at Formula 1’s future.
Here is everything confirmed so far about when each team will reveal its 2026 livery or car.
A launch season shaped by regulation change
With both chassis and engine regulations changing at the same time, teams are approaching launch season cautiously. Many will unveil liveries only, keeping technical details hidden until testing begins. Others are expected to show more, particularly those confident in their early development direction.
The unusually early start to pre season testing has also pushed launch dates forward, with events beginning in mid January and running through early February.
Red Bull and Racing Bulls kick things off
Red Bull and Racing Bulls will launch the F1 2026 car launches, hosting a joint event in Detroit on January 15 alongside new power unit partner Ford.
The event is expected to focus on liveries rather than full car designs, marking the public beginning of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains era without revealing technical details ahead of testing.
Haas begin a new chapter
Haas will unveil its 2026 livery online on January 19. The reveal carries added significance as it will be the team’s first look featuring Toyota as title sponsor, signalling a new commercial direction for the American outfit.
Audi’s long awaited Formula 1 debut
Audi will officially step onto the Formula 1 grid on January 20 with a launch event in Berlin. Taking over the former Sauber entry, the manufacturer will reveal its first factory team livery and identity ahead of its debut season.
The launch follows the unveiling of an early concept design last year, but this event marks Audi’s full arrival as a works team.
Mercedes split their launch in two
Mercedes have opted for a staggered approach. Digital renders of the 2026 car will be released online on January 22, offering a controlled first look ahead of testing.
A full season launch event will follow on February 2, featuring team leadership and drivers, with deeper insight into how Mercedes are approaching the new regulations.
Ferrari and Alpine reveal on the same day
January 23 will be one of the busiest days of launch season. Ferrari are set to unveil their 2026 car on that date, with the location still to be confirmed. A Fiorano reveal remains likely, raising the possibility of seeing a 2026 car running for the first time.
Alpine will reveal the livery for the A526 in Barcelona on the same day, aligning their launch closely with the start of private testing.
Williams, Cadillac and a Super Bowl debut
Williams will reveal its 2026 livery on February 3. The team has already confirmed that fans will have a role in selecting a special testing livery, adding a rare interactive element to launch season.
Cadillac will make one of the boldest entries in modern Formula 1 history, unveiling its first ever F1 livery during the Super Bowl halftime show on February 8. It is a statement debut designed to introduce the sport’s eleventh team to a global audience.
Aston Martin and McLaren close launch season
February 9 will see two major reveals. Aston Martin will unveil its AMR26, the team’s first car designed under Adrian Newey’s leadership and powered by Honda. Expectations are high, given the significance of both changes.
McLaren will also launch on February 9, streaming its reveal from Bahrain. As reigning teams’ champions, their first look at a 2026 car will be closely scrutinised.
Why the F1 2026 car launches matter
With three pre season tests scheduled before the opening race in Australia, launch season offers the first clues about competitive direction. Teams may hide details, but bodywork shapes, packaging choices, and early confidence in public messaging often tell their own story.
By the time the final F1 2026 car launches conclude, teams will already be deep into preparation for Melbourne.
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