Get a sneak peak at the 2025 Formula 1 season
Get a sneak peak at the 2025 Formula 1 season
Formula 1 racers will start preseason testing in Bahrain this week, and we’ve got all the details on how to watch!
The 2025 Formula 1 season is just around the corner! The season doesn’t start until March 16, but fans can see their favorite teams and drivers in action starting Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 1:55 a.m. ET on ESPN+, when preseason testing begins. Fans can watch as their top drivers tune-up for the regular season, and it’s all exclusively available to watch with a subscription to ESPN+.
How to watch 2025 Formula 1 preseason testing
- When: Starts Thursday, Feb. 26 at 1:55 a.m. ET
- TV: ESPN+
- Stream: Watch with a subscription to ESPN+.
- From anywhere: Watch with a subscription to a VPN.
Everything you need to know about 2025 Formula 1 preseason testing
Can you stream Formula 1 testing for free?
ESPN+ will be the exclusive provider of Formula 1 testing this week, and because it does not offer a free trial, there will be no way to stream the tests for free.
What is the schedule for 2025 Formula 1 preseason testing?
| Date | Time (ET) | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, Feb. 26 | 1:55- 6 a.m. 6:55 - 11 a.m. |
ESPN+ |
| Thursday, Feb. 27 | 1:55- 6 a.m. 6:55 - 11 a.m. |
ESPN+ |
| Friday. Feb. 28 | 1:55- 6 a.m. 6:55 - 11 a.m. |
ESPN+ |
About 2025 Formula 1 preseason testing
Live from the Bahrain International Circuit, F1 drivers will be making their 2025 debut starting Wednesday afternoon. Many drivers have switched teams heading into the season, and are eager to see if their cars are ready for the long season ahead. The track is 3.363 miles in length, and will also serve as host for the Bahrain Grand Prix on April 13.
This will be the last season that ESPN serves as the main TV partner for Formula 1, as in 2026 rights will shift to a new partner. Until then, however, Formula 1 races this season will still be shown on ESPN, ESPN2, or ABC, along with F1 Sprint events, as well as practice and qualifying sessions.
How to watch Formula 1 testing from anywhere
If you’ll be away from home and can’t watch Formula 1 testing as you normally would, you can still catch all of the action no matter where you are in the world with a VPN. A VPN can be used on your phone, tablet, or computer and make you appear to be back home — even when you’re not — making sure you feel at home no matter where you are. A VPN is a safe and secure way to stay protected online while streaming your favorite sports, movies, and shows on the go. Keep in mind that you will still need to be subscribed to ESPN+ in order to stream the game with a VPN.

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ESPN Select
ESPN Select is a streaming service that replaced ESPN+ and provides access to live NHL, MLB, and MLS games, PGA Tour Golf, international sports events, ESPN original programming, and a complete archive of “30 for 30.” Find out our review of the service and how to start streaming ESPN Select.
