The start of the new Formula 1 season gets ever closer with the teams heading to Bahrain for two preseason testing events starting on Wednesday.
The cars have already had a run out in Barcelona behind closed doors, but official preseason testing takes place at the Bahrain International Circuit with all 11 teams present for two three-day tests.
It’ll prove the final chance for teams to fine-tune their cars before the season gets underway with the first race in Australia taking place on March 8.
F1 preseason testing is finally here and for all your time, TV and streaming details, look no further than The Sporting News for a full guide.
Where to watch F1 preseason testing in Bahrain: TV channel, live streamTV channelStreamingFox Sports
 Foxtel Now, Kayo
Coverage of F1 in Australia for the 2026 season will be split between Fox Sports and Kayo and both of these will be showing the preseason testing in Bahrain.
Foxtel owns the TV rights to broadcast Formula 1 in Australia, including every practice session, qualifying session and full Grand Prix race in 4K.
Kayo Sports – Australia’s dedicated sports streaming service – has access to every F1 practice session, qualifying session and full Grand Prix race live and on-demand and is currently offering a FREE trial to new subscribers.
Kayo Sports is available on most devices and web browsers, including PC, Mac, iOS and Android devices, meaning it’s never been easier to keep up with all the F1 action.
F1 testing in Bahrain start time
Testing in Bahrain will take place across two three-day events at the Bahrain International Circuit with the first session getting underway on Wednesday, February 11.
Here are the key start times for fans in Australia:
Bahrain test 1
All times AEDT
Wednesday, Feb 11: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Thurs)
Thursday, Feb 12: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Fri)
Friday, Feb 13: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Sat)
Bahrain test 2
Wednesday, Feb 18: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Thurs)
Thursday, Feb 19: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Fri)
Friday, Feb 20: 6 p.m. — 3 a.m. (Sat)