"In short, it's because of a complete overhaul of the power unit, chassis and aerodynamic regulations for 2026. Such a big change, especially on the engine side, means teams need a couple of extra tests to get their heads around how to operate the new cars before the first race. It was the same last time we had a major power unit shake-up in 2014."
"Those with long enough memories may recall that Red Bull, the team that eventually finished second in the constructors' championship that year, only completed 21 laps of Jerez over the first four-day test! While we're not expecting things to be that bad for the top teams, we do have two brand new engine suppliers in Audi and Red Bull Powertrains and one brand new team in Cadillac, which will all welcome the extra track time ahead of the first race."
Formula 1 is staging a closed-door shakedown at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from Jan. 26–30 to provide extra running ahead of the 2026 regulation overhaul. The overhaul affects power units, chassis and aerodynamics, creating significant change especially on the engine side and prompting additional tests. Teams have the opportunity to test for three days across the five-day window, with the week referred to internally as Test 01. The previous major engine change in 2014 saw limited running for some teams, underscoring why extra track time is valuable now. New engine suppliers Audi and Red Bull Powertrains and entrant Cadillac will benefit from the running.
Read at ESPN.com
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