Haas shifts 2026 car launch to Jan 19 to avoid schedule clash
Summary
Haas will unveil its 2026 VF‑26 on Jan 19, moving ahead of Ferrari to avoid a congested launch week. The move aligns with Toyota’s promotion to title sponsor and confirms Ocon and Bearman as drivers.
The Haas F1 team has moved the unveiling of its 2026 challenger, the VF‑26, to 19 January, four days earlier than originally slated. The decision was taken to avoid a congested launch window after Alpine and Ferrari confirmed their own reveal dates. The new schedule gives Haas a clearer media spotlight ahead of the start of pre‑season testing.
Why it matters:
- Avoids sharing the news day with Ferrari and Alpine, reducing media noise.
- Gives the upgraded Toyota partnership a dedicated stage before other title‑sponsor announcements.
- Allows Haas to showcase its drivers, Esteban Ocon and rookie Oliver Bearman, without competing for attention.
The details:
- Launch: 19 January, online reveal via renders and video; no physical event.
- Power unit: Ferrari 2026 engine stays in use.
- Drivers: Ocon and Bearman confirmed for the full season.
- Sponsorship: Toyota upgraded to title sponsor, replacing MoneyGram.
- Testing: Barcelona shakedown scheduled for 26‑30 January.
What's next:
- Haas will use the extra media window to roll out detailed technical teasers, building hype ahead of the first race in Bahrain.
- The early launch may give engineers more time to incorporate feedback before the February testing program.
- Toyota’s title‑sponsor status could bring additional resources, potentially accelerating development of aerodynamic upgrades for the 2026 car.
With the calendar reshuffled, Haas will aim to turn the early launch into a competitive advantage as the 2026 season approaches.
Original Article :https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/haas-moves-f1-2026-launch-date-after-unforese...