P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The F1 cars for 2026 will hit the track for the first time at the end of January – but will all the teams be ready?
Red Bull has acknowledged that it will be a challenge to get their car prepared for the upcoming on-track test in Barcelona at the end of this month. The test will be held in Spain behind closed doors over five days, with each team choosing three days for their challenger to run. Despite the difficulties, Red Bull’s chief engineer, Paul Monaghan, is confident the car will be ready for the test. The significant regulation overhaul in Formula 1 this year includes changes to aerodynamics and power unit rules, leading teams to keep their developments under wraps. Monaghan believes teams will need time to explore the potential of their cars, as they strive to make improvements before the season opener in Australia. Despite the challenges, Red Bull aims to hit the ground running with their preparations and adapt the car as needed throughout testing.
