WILLIAMS SKIPS F1 TESTING IN BARCELONA

Williams has stunned the Formula 1 paddock by confirming it won’t take part in the first major pre-season test of the 2026 season: The five-day shakedown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 26 to 30 January.

The British team said the announcement was made because its new FW48 car isn’t ready in time.

In an official statement, the team made it clear the decision was about maximising performance rather than quitting. They’ve admitted there’ve been delays in the FW48 programme as they continue to push development hard, and rather than rushing an unfinished car onto the track in Spain, Williams will focus on alternative testing, including virtual sessions and rig work.

“We’re still pushing for maximum car performance,” the team said, stressing that there’s a lot to look forward to in 2026 and thanking fans for their support.

While Williams insists there’s confidence the FW48 will be ready in time for the Bahrain pre-season tests (11 to 13 and 18 to 20 February) and the season opener in Melbourne on 8 March, missing Barcelona means they’ll lose valuable track time under the sport’s new technical regulations, arguably one of the biggest shake-ups F1 has seen.

Drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz have reacted to the news, with Albon saying it’s “not how we wanted to start the year,” but emphasising that the team remains fully focused on preparation.

For Williams, which impressed last season with a fifth-place finish in the constructors’ championship and two podiums, this setback is a test of resilience.

By skipping Barcelona and doubling down on development off-track, they’re betting that quality over early mileage will pay off later in the year.

Image credit: The New York Times