Williams Skips Pre-Season Barcelona Shakedown for 2026 Car Focus

Williams F1 Team has decided to skip the upcoming Barcelona Shakedown. This event is a chance for teams to test their new cars before the main pre-season testing in Bahrain. The shakedown runs from January 26 to 30 at the Circuit Barcelona-Catalunya. It offers extra track time to help teams adjust to new regulations. Williams will not be there. Instead, they are focusing on their own private testing. This private testing is to prepare for the first official test in Bahrain. The Bahrain test happens from February 11 to 13. The team explained their decision in a statement. They said delays in their FW48 program made them choose this path. They want to push for the best car performance in 2026. Instead of going to Barcelona, they will do virtual track testing. This is to prepare for Bahrain and the first race in Melbourne.Williams thanked their fans for support. They said there is a lot to look forward to in 2026. This decision shows a strategic approach. It also shows a focus on long-term performance. The Barcelona Shakedown is a big deal. It helps teams fine-tune their cars before the season starts. But Williams sees more value in their own testing. This way, they can work on their car without the pressure of public scrutiny. Private testing can be more flexible. Teams can focus on specific areas without distractions. It is a smart move for Williams to take this route. They are putting performance first.