Short Description
Haas has officially debuted its 2026 Formula 1 car, the VF-26, with Oliver Bearman leading the charge at Fiorano. Explore what’s next for the American team and their engine partner Ferrari.
Read Time
3 minutes 45 seconds
Main Article
Haas F1 Team recently marked a significant milestone by conducting the first laps of its 2026 contender, the VF-26. This event took place at Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit, where sophomore driver Oliver Bearman was at the wheel, showcasing the team’s commitment to the upcoming season. The shakedown runs were executed using Pirelli’s special demonstration tyres, highlighting Haas’s dedication to preparing for the new regulations in Formula 1. The team has shared its excitement via social media, posting an image of Bearman leaving the garage with the enthusiastic caption, “The VF-26 is alive.”
This shakedown not only unveiled the VF-26’s physical form but also solidified Haas’s ongoing partnership with Ferrari, as the team will continue using Ferrari’s engines for this new regulation cycle. This exciting moment follows Ferrari’s own demonstration event a day prior, featuring Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. As the 2026 season approaches, it’s crucial to note that Haas will be required to manage a unique engine configuration, where nearly 50% of power will be produced by the internal combustion system and the hybrid unit.
Additionally, 2026 also brings a significant change for Haas as it expands its collaboration with Toyota, which will act as its title sponsor this season. The VF-26 prominently displayed Toyota Gazoo Racing branding during the shakedown, reflecting the growing synergy between the brands. As of now, Haas joins six other teams—Audi, Cadillac, Alpine, Mercedes, Racing Bulls, and Ferrari—in having run their 2026 cars, while Williams, Red Bull, Aston Martin, and reigning champion McLaren have yet to unveil their machines.
With a scheduled test at Barcelona from January 26 to 30, Haas is set to showcase its competitive spirit with an aggressive early development program, altering the specification of the VF-26 that will participate in the pre-season tests. As anticipation builds, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the team’s early preparations will translate into performance on the track, especially considering that Williams has already announced it won’t partake in the Barcelona test week.
Short Summary
Haas F1 Team has successfully completed the shakedown of its 2026 car, the VF-26, with Oliver Bearman leading the way. As the season approaches, the team’s partnerships with Ferrari and Toyota will be critical in navigating new regulations. With aggressive development plans in place, Haas aims to enhance its on-track performance ahead of the pivotal Barcelona test.
