The 2026 Formula 1 season is almost here and there are plenty of changes for fans to get used to at the first race in Australia.

From bold new regulations to an 11th team on the grid, BBC Sport breaks down what to expect this year, before the season-opener in Melbourne, from 6-8 March.

Ferrari's upside side rear wing, described as a test item by the team, was only used briefly during testing

F1 is stepping into the unknown with some of the biggest rule changes the sport has ever seen, with the power unit, chassis, tyres and fuel all new for 2026.

Cars are now smaller and more environmentally friendly, with engines that have a near 50-50 split between electric and internal combustion power - and use fully sustainable fuels.