Formula 1 has defined the calendar for the 2026 season, which will feature a total of 24 Grands Prix and mark the beginning of a new era for the category. The championship will start on March 6th in Australia and end on December 4th in Abu Dhabi, in a context of profound technical change that also generates expectations around Franco Colapinto's future within the paddock. According to information from the Argentine News Agency, the extensive schedule includes six weekends with a sprint format and its main novelty is the Grand Prix of Madrid, which will be held from September 11th to 13th. Additionally, the races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been moved to April due to the celebration of Ramadan. It will be a key period to adapt to the new cars before the start of the championship. From the organization, Stefano Domenicali highlighted that 2026 will mark 'a new era' for Formula 1, with the arrival of new brands such as Audi, Cadillac, and Ford. The first will be a private shakedown in Barcelona, from January 26th to 30th, while the final two sessions will take place in Bahrain, from February 11th to 13th and from 18th to 20th, already with broadcast and greater exposure. In Europe, the activity will begin in Monaco in early June and will close precisely in the Spanish capital. For Colapinto, 2026 appears as a pivotal year. In this scenario, the Argentine will seek to consolidate himself and take advantage of a context that historically opens opportunities, especially for those trying to establish themselves in the top category of world motorsport. The preseason will also have an unprecedented format, with three blocks of official tests. The regulatory change, which introduces new cars, engines, and 100% sustainable fuels, means a fresh start for all teams and drivers.
