Technical Regulations
McLaren to skip first day of Barcelona F1 shakedown test
Ti AI ṣe iroyin Àwòrán tí AI ṣe
McLaren will not participate on the opening day of the Formula 1 Barcelona shakedown test from January 26-30, opting to maximize development time for its 2026 MCL40 car. The team plans to start testing on day two or three, focusing on understanding the new regulations rather than rushing upgrades. Chief designer Rob Marshall indicated no substantial changes are expected before the Australian Grand Prix.
Formula 1 is conducting its initial shakedown for the 2026 regulations at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this week, deliberately kept from public view to prioritize operational checks over spectacle. Teams aim to verify the reliability of new power units, active aerodynamics, and other innovations without the pressure of live broadcasts. While fans express frustration, officials emphasize the event's focus on fundamentals amid challenging weather.