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F1 faces furious backlash as fans shut out of crucial 2026 testing: is this pathetic?

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
January 13, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
0
F1 faces furious backlash as fans shut out of crucial 2026 testing: is this pathetic?

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 07: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 leads Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes and Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 07, 2025 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Sam Bloxham/LAT Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202512070210 // Usage for editorial use only //

F1 FANS LEFT OUT IN THE COLD: A PATETIC DISREGARD FOR SUPPORTERS AS TESTING GOES PRIVATE!

In a shocking move that has sent ripples through the F1 community, former general manager Peter Windsor has unleashed a scathing critique of the sport’s decision to conduct pre-season testing behind closed doors. Describing this choice as ‘pathetic,’ Windsor highlights a monumental missed opportunity for Formula 1 to engage with its passionate fanbase ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 season.

As teams prepare for a seismic regulations overhaul that is set to reshape the future of F1, the excitement is palpable. With a substantial 11 days of testing scheduled before the season kicks off at the Australian Grand Prix in early March, the stakes couldn’t be higher. However, the first five days of testing in Barcelona at the end of January will take place in complete secrecy, away from the eager eyes of fans. This unprecedented move has ignited outrage, with Windsor pointing out that allowing fans to witness this crucial phase of car development could have been a game-changer for the sport.

Windsor passionately voiced his disappointment, stating, “It’s a perfect opportunity to really sell F1 before the season starts. And yet the teams I presume have said, ‘oh no we can’t do that,’ it’s just pathetic.” His sentiments resonate with countless fans who feel sidelined by the decision-makers in F1. “The fans should have access to the test and they should all be there,” he insisted, emphasizing that this is not just any test; it’s a vital Formula 1 shakedown that could attract tens of thousands of spectators.

The former F1 mogul further elaborated on the excitement that could have surrounded the test, urging for a more inclusive approach: “There should be 50,000, 60,000 people at every day of the test. That’s what testing should be all about, and they’re missing a massive opportunity in not doing that.” His comments reflect the frustration of a fanbase that craves connection and transparency from the sport they adore.

With the 2026 car launches around the corner, anticipation is building. The first official unveiling will take place in Detroit on January 15, featuring powerhouse teams like Red Bull and Racing Bulls. Following them, other teams such as Haas, Audi, and Ferrari are set to reveal their new machines, all while the veil of secrecy looms over the initial testing days.

As the clock ticks down to the 2026 season, one question looms large: will the leaders of Formula 1 heed the call of the fans, or will they continue down a path that alienates those who support the sport? The time for change is now, and as Windsor aptly put it, the current approach is nothing short of “pathetic.” The world is watching, and the F1 community deserves better.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2019-red-bull-crandon-world-cup2025-2026-seasonfranziska-haaspeter-windsorracing-bulls-2
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