What happened: Formula 1 confirmed that Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi will host the annual post-season test on Dec. 7. The track retains the running window following the season finale, keeping the traditional venue in place.

Why it matters: The outing provides teams a critical running window split between young driver evaluation and development work with Pirelli. It offers incoming rookies and reserve drivers extended seat time in current machinery ahead of winter testing restrictions.

What to watch: The 2026 championship heads into its closing stretch before the grid convenes at Yas Marina for the test.