P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ex-F1 technical director Gary Anderson explains the key challenges facing all teams during the early stages of 2026 + what he’d have changed about the regs
With one week left before the behind-closed-doors Formula 1 test at Barcelona, pressure is mounting on all involved parties. The organizational aspect is crucial, with deadlines closely monitored to ensure everything is on track. Detecting missing components or issues at the last minute could be detrimental, so staying on top of the process is key to addressing any problems that may arise. Teams will be testing initial versions of the 2026 car to ensure reliability and performance. The extra time before the final pre-season test allows for maximum design and research updates, essential for a strong start to the season. Preparing for the power unit changes and optimizing energy usage will be crucial in the upcoming season, with much of the optimization work being done behind closed doors.
