Haas has officially joined the 2026 Formula 1 grid with its first shakedown run. F1 sophomore Oliver Bearman piloted the new VF-26 car at Ferrari's Fiorano circuit on Saturday, completing a filming day with Pirelli demonstration tyres. The run marks a key milestone as the team prepares for the sport's new regulations era.

The team's early activity follows a trend set by rivals, with the entire grid making final preparations before the first official test. For Haas, integrating the new powertrain and aerodynamic package is critical after a challenging 2024 season. This initial run allows engineers to gather baseline data on the car's systems and performance window.

All eyes now turn to the upcoming Barcelona test, where Bearman and the team will get their first real taste of competitive running. The VF-26's performance will be a major indicator of Haas's ability to compete under the radically different technical rules, which aim to make the sport more sustainable and road-relevant.