Overview
- Alpine unveiled the A526 and confirmed its switch to Mercedes power, released a promo spotlighting Franco Colapinto, and saw team boss Steve Nielsen predict the Argentine will show his best form this year.
- The FIA approved a wording change to power‑unit measurement procedures on February 28, with the update set to take effect on June 1; Toto Wolff said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem supported Mercedes’ position throughout.
- Aston Martin’s preseason featured reported vibrations and reliability issues linked to the Honda power unit, with both sides indicating the causes are under review ahead of Melbourne.
- The 2026 technical reset introduces greater electric deployment, 100% sustainable fuels, active aerodynamics replacing DRS, new overtake and manual boost systems, and lighter, narrower cars.
- F1 begins March 8 in Melbourne on a confirmed 24‑race calendar as the grid debuts new manufacturer alignments including Red Bull–Ford, Audi’s entry, and Cadillac running Ferrari power.