New Era, New Look! Haas Go Early; Pulls Covers Off VF-26 As F1’s New Era Begins

Haas has given fans an early glimpse of the future.

F1’s smallest team unveiled digital renders of their VF-26 on Monday, lifting the lid on a bold new look ahead of a season expected to be defined by rapid development and drivers relearning how to go fast.

Time to turn heads. This is the VF-26 🤩#HaasF1 #F1 pic.twitter.com/navqIquZeF

— TGR Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) January 19, 2026

Now entering their 11th season, the U.S.-owned outfit — backed by Toyota Gazoo Racing as title sponsor — will race the new car with Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman at the wheel.

And with F1 on the brink of one of its biggest technical shake-ups ever, there’s plenty of unknown territory ahead.

“It feels almost surreal to be unveiling a new car this early in the year,” said

team principal Ayao Komatsu. “It’s been a monumental effort from everyone, especially with such a tight turnaround from the end of last season to getting cars ready for January running.”

Bold and dynamic 👊 Our latest challenger has arrived 😮‍💨#HaasF1 #F1 pic.twitter.com/NvbOLQ1ohH

— TGR Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) January 19, 2026

The VF-26 arrives as Formula One prepares for a sweeping new engine and aerodynamic era, with behind-closed-doors testing starting in Barcelona on January 26. Haas finished eighth in the constructors’ standings last year, wrapping up their Ferrari-powered campaign in Abu Dhabi on December 7.

For the drivers, it’s not just a new car —  it’s a new way of thinking.

“I think we can forget everything we’ve learned since go-karts about how to go fast,” said Ocon. “It’s a completely different driving style. You have to think a lot more while driving and really work to find the speed.”

Ocon said early simulator work suggests the car has good balance and grip, but warned the biggest learning curve will come from engine management and the hybrid systems.

Bearman, heading into his second full season, summed up the mood perfectly: excitement mixed with uncertainty.

“On one side, it’s great because we can really make an impact straight away,” the 20-year-old said. “On the other hand, it’s horrible not knowing where you stand.”

With reliability likely to shape the early pecking order, Bearman expects surprises.

“There are going to be mistakes across the grid with these new regulations,” he said. “It’s going to take a while before we really know who’s where.”

(with Reuters inputs)