F1's 2026 season finally returns after a five-week hiatus, with teams like Ferrari and Mercedes showcasing upgraded cars at the Miami Grand Prix. The break, caused by the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races, allowed teams to refine their 2026 regulations-compliant vehicles, with Ferrari principal Frederic Vasseur calling it the start of a "new championship."

The hiatus enabled unrestricted factory work, letting teams optimize aerodynamic upgrades and software. Mercedes, dominant since Suzuka, faces pressure as Ferrari aims to close the gap. McLaren, meanwhile, plans a "completely new" MCL40 for Miami and Canada, leveraging the extended development window.

Upgrades focus on aerodynamics and power unit efficiency, with teams analyzing data from the season's first three races. The break also spurred regulatory tweaks, including changes to be implemented from Miami. Drivers and engineers collaborated to maximize performance, blending simulator work with on-track testing.

With the $215m budget cap and testing restrictions in place, the Miami race tests whether teams can translate factory work into track results. McLaren and Ferrari aim to disrupt Mercedes' lead, while Aston Martin and Williams seek redemption. The extended gap highlights F1's evolving technical and strategic landscape.