The Race F1 Podcast What to expect from F1's weird 2026 pre-season
Jan 7, 2026
Join Jon Noble, a seasoned motorsport journalist, and Josh Suttill, an expert in F1 technical matters, as they dive into the peculiarities of the 2026 pre-season. They discuss the unusual nature of car launches, emphasizing how secrecy affects team messaging. The duo predicts which launches will be significant and critiques the behind-closed-doors Barcelona test for limiting fan insights. Expect lively discussions on reliability versus performance, energy management, and the impact of new cars on driver adaptation. Buckle up for insightful F1 analysis!
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Launches Fill The Knowledge Bucket
- Launches start the gradual filling of a "knowledge bucket" about each team's true position. Small cues at launches compound into season-long narratives that matter more with big rule changes.
Messaging Reveals Confidence
- Teams' messaging at launches reveals their confidence and strategy as much as on-track running. Under-promising then delivering reduces pressure and can become a season-long advantage.
Treat Barcelona Rumours With Caution
- Expect misinformation to spread quickly from the closed Barcelona test and treat early claims cautiously. Cross-check rumours and wait for Bahrain tests for firmer verification.