Williams will miss the first Formula 1 test in Barcelona due to a delayed car

Williams also still has one mandatory impact test remaining, on the nose area, although that is not the reason behind their decision not to go to Barcelona.

Williams said in a statement that they will instead focus on running the car and engine on a dynamic platform as they prepare for the second pre-season test in Bahrain from February 11-13.

The other 10 teams are expected to be at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where they will be allowed to run for a maximum of three of the five days of testing between January 26 and 30.

World champions McLaren have already said they will not be ready to go on day one, and perhaps not on day two, as they have given themselves as much time as possible to maximize the design of their new car.

Ferrari is scheduled to test for the first time on Tuesday, while Aston Martin is also not expected to be ready for the first day of Barcelona testing.

Williams, who finished fifth in the Constructors’ Championship last year, will continue with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz as its drivers in 2026.