Williams Opts for Focused Prep: Barcelona Test Skipped as F1 Team Chases 2026 Momentum
24 January 2026
Shakedown decision and Bahrain focus
The Williams F1 team has confirmed it will not participate in the Barcelona shakedown, stating the choice is part of their plan to extract the maximum performance from the FW48 ahead of the 2026 season.
The three-day shakedown is scheduled for 26-30 January at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, offering teams extra track time to run their new cars and adapt to updated regulations, in addition to Bahrain's pre-season tests.
What happens next for Williams?
Despite skipping Barcelona, Williams will run a private test program before the first official Bahrain test, slated for February 11-13.
In an official statement, the team explained the decision follows some delays in the FW48 development, and reaffirmed their aim to reach the car's maximum performance.
They added that instead of Barcelona, they will conduct a series of tests, including a Virtual Track Testing (VTT) program next week using the 2026 car to prepare for Bahrain and the season opener in Melbourne.
The statement closed with optimism about returning to the track in the coming weeks and thanks to the fans for their continued support as they look ahead to a promising 2026 season.
Punchline 1 If speed were a joke, Williams would be the punchline magnet—always late to the start, but spectacular when it arrives.
Punchline 2 The real sprint starts in Melbourne; the rest is pit stop comedy.
