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Formula 1's New Era: First Laps at Silverstone
The buildup to the anticipated 2026 Formula 1 season is officially underway with initial shakedowns as new cars take their tentative first steps on track.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-02-18T00:10:00.000Z - 2 min read
The long-awaited 2026 Formula 1 season is fast approaching. Teams have been working behind closed doors for months on the cars meant to define the upcoming era. Now, the first track meters for this new generation of cars are a reality, marking a critical phase for the teams.
Cadillac F1 recently set the tone during their shakedown at the iconic Silverstone circuit. Sergio Perez, making his Formula 1 return with the American newcomer, was the first driver to log mileage in the 2026 car. The Mexican expressed full confidence in Cadillac's ambitions and received advice from Formula 1 legend Mario Andretti.
Mercedes also selected Silverstone for the maiden runs of their new machine, even under wet conditions. George Russell offered his immediate first impressions of the car, which will be crucial for his hopes of success. Team principal Toto Wolff spoke about the steady development of talent Kimi Antonelli as a future winner, looking ahead with curiosity at the grid's new hierarchy.
Further down the paddock, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu looked ahead to the upcoming campaign. He praised the positive mindset of Ollie Bearman, who is entering his second full Formula 1 season. According to Komatsu, the British driver has clear objectives: winning races and eventually contending for world championships.
These initial meters for the 2026 generation signal the start of a period packed with technical challenges and strategic choices. Born from years of development, the prototypes will undergo intensive testing in the coming period. It represents a key phase in which future contenders will gradually emerge.