Crash.internet understands that Aston Martin is anticipated to overlook the opening three days of the primary 2026 F1 pre-season take a look at in Barcelona.
F1 will maintain the primary of three pre-season assessments this week on the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit in Spain, with a five-day “shakedown” take a look at.
The primary week of the 2026 F1 automobile launch can be held behind closed doorways, with groups allowed to take part on any three days between January 26 and 30.
Seven of the 11 groups participated within the opening sport in Barcelona. It was already identified that McLaren and Ferrari would miss the primary day, however Williams confirmed they might miss your complete take a look at as their new automobile couldn’t be prepared on time.
Nonetheless, regardless of the hospitality and assist system on the circuit, eyebrows have been raised as there was no signal of Aston Martin competing on the primary day.
Crash.internet has discovered that the Silverstone-based staff won’t be collaborating within the opening three days as a result of improvement delays.
An Aston Martin spokesperson mentioned: “The AMR26 can be in Barcelona for shakedown later this week and can be working on Thursday and Friday.”
It’s understood that Aston Martin has chosen to maximise improvement time, delaying the design and manufacturing of the automobile for so long as attainable.
Aston Martin’s AMR26 is the primary F1 automobile constructed by legendary designer Adrian Newey, who can be staff principal this 12 months.
There may be lots of anticipation and pleasure across the staff given Newey’s involvement and the truth that they’ve secured a manufacturing unit energy unit contract with Honda.
Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will return to drive for Aston Martin in 2026.
Two-time world champion Alonso will flip 45 in July, however his contract expires on the finish of the season and he has to make a giant choice about his future in F1.
