Williams will miss Formula 1’s pre-season test in Barcelona next week after failing to have their new car ready in time, the team confirmed on Friday.

The behind-closed-doors test at the Circuit de Catalunya was set to mark the first occasion all teams would run their 2026 cars together, with the grid expanded to 11 following the arrival of newcomers Cadillac. It also comes at the start of a new era for the sport, with sweeping technical and engine regulation changes introduced for the 2026 season.

In a statement, the team explained the decision was taken to prioritise long-term performance over rushing preparation.

“Atlassian Williams F1 Team has taken the decision not to participate in next week’s shakedown test in Barcelona following delays in the FW48 programme as we continue to push for maximum car performance,” the statement read.

“Instead, the team will conduct a series of tests, including a Virtual Test Track (VTT) programme, with the 2026 car next week to prepare for the first official test in Bahrain and the opening race of the season in Melbourne.

“We are looking forward to getting on track in the coming weeks and thank our fans for their continued support – there is a lot to look forward to together in 2026.”

Williams, who will be represented this season by Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, did not specify the exact nature of the delays, although reports suggest the issue may be linked to completing mandatory FIA crash tests required before running on track.

The absence was described as a setback by Alpine driver Franco Colapinto, who remains contracted to Williams after beginning his F1 career with the team, particularly given the limited testing opportunities available under current regulations.

“If you miss Barcelona, the first three days in Bahrain will just be about trying to get the car to work and understand it,” Colapinto said at Alpine’s car launch in Barcelona. “It’s very important to get as much mileage as possible and gain all the knowledge you can.”

Several teams, including Alpine, Ferrari, Cadillac and Audi, have already completed limited-mileage filming days with their new cars, and all bar Williams are expected to attend the Barcelona test.

Alpine technical director David Sanchez underlined the importance of early running amid such significant regulatory change.

“You want the car on track as early as possible so you can find the problems, fix them, and give yourself time,” he said.

Williams previously missed two days of pre-season testing ahead of the 2019 campaign but enjoyed a strong 2025 season, finishing fifth in the constructors’ standings — their best result since 2017.

The 2026 Formula 1 season gets underway with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8.