Barcelona Launches Closed F1 Tests

Today in Barcelona, an unusual series of closed winter tests for Formula 1 has begun. Over five days, from January 26 to 30, the teams will work without media, photographers, or spectators access is limited to the participants and a small F1.com crew. The tests have been organized by the teams themselves, and each is free to choose any three days for running. Audi and Alpine intend to start early to identify potential issues as soon as possible, while McLaren, Ferrari, and Aston Martin will skip the first day. Williams will not attend at all, as their car is not yet ready.

The primary objective of these tests is to evaluate the reliability of the new power units and fundamental systems. It will be impossible to judge the true performance of the cars based on this week’s running, as teams are using early chassis versions and traditionally conceal their pace until Bahrain.