Why Formula 1’s First 2026 Barcelona Test Is Happening in January — And Why the Entire Shakedown Is Being Held in Secrecy
F1’s First 2026 Barcelona Test: Formula 1 has officially taken its first step into the 2026 era, but in an unusual and tightly controlled manner. The sport’s first 2026 on-track running is taking place in January at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, behind closed doors, without fans, independent media, or live timing. Officially labelled a “shakedown,”…