Inside F1’s Secret ‘Shakedown’: Why One Team Is Absent
Formula 1 teams are set to begin a significant period of car evaluations in Barcelona, but this will be referred to as a ‘shakedown’ rather than a traditional pre-season test. The distinction is crucial; the regulations technically categorize it as pre-season testing, yet expected media scrutiny has prompted teams to opt for this private format. The official pre-season testing will occur in Bahrain in February, consisting of two separate three-day events, culminating before the season opener on March 8 in Australia.
Barcelona Shakedown: Understanding the Context
This shakedown will unfold behind closed doors at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, without media or public access. This private format mirrors the quieter launch strategy of the new regulations, which are among the most substantial in recent years. Teams are keen to avoid the mishaps witnessed during the inaugural hybrid power unit testing in 2014.
Teams’ Performance in 2014 Shapes 2023 Strategy
The memory of Red Bull Racing’s struggles—completing only 21 laps during the initial tests—is fresh. In an effort to maintain competitive advantages, teams have chosen to keep this event under wraps. Currently, expectations for car reliability are more optimistic than nearly a decade ago, which could influence the dynamics of these initial trials.
Engine Progress Across Teams
While some teams like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull report smooth operations in their recent shakedowns, Audi has faced challenges. The team completed approximately 50 kilometers during its last session, significantly less than the allowed 200 kilometers. Cadillac, also debuting as a team, has opted for a customer Ferrari engine but remains untested in this private environment.
Testing Conditions and Participation
The shakedown in Barcelona will run from Monday to Friday, with each team allotted three non-split days for testing. Weather conditions could impact the planned runs, as rain is expected on at least one day. McLaren has confirmed they will only join the shakedown on Tuesday due to preparation schedules, while Audi intends to start promptly on the first day.
- Teams Present: Audi, Alpine, Ferrari, McLaren, others
- Teams Absent: Williams, citing delays in their FW48 program
Williams’ Notable Absence
Williams has publicly acknowledged its absence from the Barcelona shakedown due to significant delays. While the exact issues remain undisclosed, rumors suggest the car hasn’t fully passed necessary checks. This substantial gap in preparation could severely impact their performance compared to rivals who will access crucial testing time.
Aiming for Reliability and Performance Understanding
This year’s tests are uniquely focused on car reliability and understanding new regulations, shifting from performance-oriented evaluations of prior seasons. Teams like Ferrari emphasize the goal of accumulating miles to evaluate their new configurations under the stringent 2026 regulations. Each team is prioritizing robust energy management, which is key in the new power unit design.
Final Thoughts
Despite the secrecy around the Barcelona shakedown, insights and information are likely to leak. A clearer picture of team performances may gradually emerge, yet true assessments of capabilities will only be definitive once racing commences in Bahrain. As teams gear up for this crucial evaluation phase, the outcomes of the shakedown will play a pivotal role in shaping the upcoming Formula 1 season.
