Your Complete Guide to F1's Last Winter Preparation: Bahrain Testing Details and Viewing Information
Formula 1 teams will converge on Bahrain for the final pre-season evaluation before the 2026 campaign officially begins. This comprehensive guide provides everything fans need to know about accessing the test, including full scheduling and broadcast details.

As teams put the finishing touches on their preparations for the 2026 season, Formula 1's concluding winter test takes center stage in Bahrain. This is your essential resource for catching all the action as drivers and engineers conduct last-minute evaluations before the championship kicks off.
The Bahrain test represents the final opportunity for all 10 teams to fine-tune their machinery and strategies in competitive conditions. With new technical regulations and innovations on display, this session will provide crucial insights into the competitive landscape heading into the new season.
Whether you're a dedicated F1 aficionado seeking detailed session schedules or a casual viewer looking for straightforward broadcast information, this guide covers everything needed to follow along. From timing of track activity to where and how to watch across different regions, we've compiled the complete details to ensure you don't miss a moment of this critical preparation phase.
Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage of the on-track proceedings, standout performances, and technical developments that emerge from Bahrain as teams make their final adjustments before racing resumes.
Original source
The Race
Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article B11.2.1
TCC General Conditions
Chapter: B
In Simple Terms
Teams can conduct TCC (Tyre Compatibility Check) testing on European circuits for a maximum of 9 continuous hours between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM, but only when there's no championship competition happening. Teams need permission if they want to do it differently.
- Maximum 9 continuous hours allowed per TCC session
- Testing window is 09:00 to 19:00 (9 AM to 7 PM)
- Only permitted on European circuits
- Cannot take place during championship competition weekends
Official FIA Text
TCC may only take place for maximum continuous nine hours between 09:00 and 19:00 on European circuits unless agreed otherwise, while no championship competition is taking place.
Article B11.4
Provisions for TMC
Chapter: B
In Simple Terms
TMC (Test/Marketing Cars) are special F1 cars that teams can run with minimal changes to test new tyres or components for upcoming seasons. These cars can only run for a maximum of nine hours per day between 9 AM and 7 PM, and must follow all safety procedures including red flag rules and fuel handling regulations.
- TMC cars are limited to minimal modifications only
- Used exclusively for testing tyres and components for future championships
- Maximum running time is 9 hours daily between 09:00-19:00
- Must comply with red flag procedures and fuel handling provisions
Official FIA Text
TMC cars limited to minimal modifications for testing development tyres or components for future championships. Running maximum nine hours between 09:00 and 19:00. Red flag procedures and fuel handling provisions must be respected.
Article B11.5.1
THC - Car Specification
Chapter: B11.5
In Simple Terms
Teams can only conduct THC (Tyre Heat Control) on cars that meet the current technical regulations for that season. You can't use outdated or modified car designs to test tire heating procedures.
- THC procedures must use cars built to current specification
- Teams cannot use older or non-compliant car designs for THC
- This ensures fair and standardized tire testing across all teams
Official FIA Text
THC may only be carried out with Cars constructed to the specification of the period.
Trending Articles

McLaren Frustrated by Limited Technical Disclosure from Mercedes Engine Program
about 1 hour ago
Stella Outlines McLaren's Path Forward Following Melbourne Reality Check
about 1 hour ago.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Melbourne Delivers: Six Standout Performers and Five Disappointing Campaigns from F1's Season Opener
about 1 hour ago
Beyond the Podium: Nine Hidden Gems from Australia's Grand Prix Weekend
about 1 hour ago
Your Complete Guide to the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix: Schedule, Viewing Options, and Essential Details
about 1 hour ago