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 channelStreamingTSN, RDS, Noovo

 TSN+

In Canada, TSN and RDS/Noovo(French) will have the broadcast rights for the 2026 season. 

Both channels are scheduled to show the F1 testing events in Bahrain.

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 Canada:

Bahrain test 1

All times ET

Wednesday, Feb 11: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.
Thursday, Feb 12: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.
Friday, Feb 13: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.

Bahrain test 2

Wednesday, Feb 18: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.
Thursday, Feb 19: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.
Friday, Feb 20: 2 a.m. — 11 a.m.