The Formula 1 of 2026, with its share of technical and sporting changes, is generating a lot of ink. Although enthusiasm may be lacking, curiosity is palpable. However, since the first collective race took place behind closed doors, one wonders if F1 has truly missed an opportunity to attract crowds.
A First Race Without the Public
It is true that the “Shakedown”, as F1 calls it, took place without the sounds of the crowd. Without spectators in the stands, without journalists roaming the paddock, and even fewer photographers to capture these crucial moments. The official communication played the card of discretion, and the summaries became a sort of well-oiled propaganda. This situation raises a question: has F1 lost a golden opportunity to capitalise on the public’s anticipation? In reality, the answer is more nuanced. The teams, facing concerns related to the new regulations, pushed for an additional testing session. Therefore, the commitment was inevitable.
A Refreshing Secret
It is not necessary to know everything about the pre-season tests. In a world where F1 has become a hypermediated spectacle, there was something refreshing about this format. At a time when every move is scrutinised, where every interview is analysed, finding a bit of mystery around the pre-season tests harks back to a bygone era. Indeed, fifteen years ago, these sessions were little followed, and only a few fragments of information filtered through to enthusiasts. The blend of rediscovery and nostalgia was palpable for those who have lived through both eras.
The free practice raises another question: do we film all training sessions before a Champions League match? No, because public interest remains limited. Information, even if not continuously broadcast, eventually emerges. Therefore, it is legitimate to wonder whether this opacity surrounding the pre-season tests is truly necessary.
Acceptable… Up to a Point
The security surrounding these tests has sometimes been excessive. In retrospect, this precaution seems even unjustified. The teams’ fears regarding numerous technical innovations can be understood, but ultimately, the tests went well. New brands like Audi and Aston Martin likely appreciated this relative calm, even if it did not prevent some apprehensions.
However, the closed-door situation left a bitter taste. Certainly, the preparatory work for a season should not be exposed to public scrutiny, but why establish such a barrier around events that would not require so much secrecy? The idea of a closed-door event without media may be acceptable, but when it comes to preventing any form of information, it becomes problematic.
Limiting access to live timings or restricting viewing angles from the outside is not an issue, but deploying a security apparatus to monitor curious onlookers and media around the circuit goes too far. Patrols, identity checks, helicopters monitoring the surrounding hills… One could almost laugh if it weren’t so serious. What result does all this lead to?
In the end, this desire to maintain secrecy has only reinforced the unappealing image of the discipline. Attempts to control information leaks have failed, and the work of some Spanish journalists, such as those from SoyMotor, deserves praise for shedding light on these tests. This closed-door situation has certainly given these tests an air of mystery, but at what cost?
