Haas F1 Team has become the first team to showcase images of their all-new 2026 car, the VF-26, marking a significant moment in the sport as it prepares for a new era of regulations. This unveiling comes after livery reveals from Red Bull and Racing Bulls last week, setting the stage for a series of announcements from various teams about their challengers for the upcoming season.
The VF-26 features a striking design that aligns with the new rules, which include changes to power units and chassis. The car is notably smaller and lighter, with redesigned front and rear wings that aim to reduce downforce and drag compared to previous models. The new livery also reflects a significant aesthetic shift, replacing the black carbon sections of last year’s model with larger white areas and additional red accents, a tribute to their new title sponsor, Toyota Gazoo Racing.
Ayao Komatsu, team principal of Haas, expressed excitement regarding the early unveiling, stating, “It feels almost a bit surreal to be unveiling a new car this early in the year but it’s not any less exciting venturing into a new F1 campaign – especially one with such a change in regulations.” Haas finished eighth in last year’s Constructors’ Championship but enters the 2026 season with momentum, having recorded the second-highest points total in their ten-year history.
With the first pre-season testing event scheduled for Barcelona from January 26 to 30, 2026, Haas is gearing up for a robust testing schedule before the season opens with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026. Komatsu emphasized the importance of these testing sessions, noting, “Track time is going to be crucial through Spain and Bahrain, and while we know there are going to be challenges along the way, we do this because we’re passionate about Formula 1.”
In the driver lineup, Oliver Bearman returns for a second consecutive season alongside the experienced Esteban Ocon. Bearman had a remarkable rookie season, particularly in the second half, where he achieved five consecutive points finishes and a career-best fourth place in Mexico. His performance has sparked speculation about his potential future with Ferrari, which has loaned him to Haas after signing him to their academy.
Reflecting on his rookie experience, Bearman stated, “It was a year where I certainly learned a lot… I’ve definitely improved a lot in all of those areas and I’m really happy with how the season went, particularly the second half.” He believes that the insights gained from racing at various circuits will enhance his competitiveness in the upcoming season.
The pre-season testing schedule is crucial as teams prepare for the new season. Following the Barcelona event, there will be two additional tests in Bahrain on February 11-13 and February 18-20. The first practice sessions for the Australian Grand Prix will take place on March 6, 2026, with qualifying on March 7, 2026, and the opening race on March 8, 2026.
As the countdown to the 2026 Formula 1 season begins, Haas’s early reveal of the VF-26 sets an exciting tone for what promises to be a transformative year in motorsport.
