Share this article on LinkedIn Email

Formula 1 will run only two tests in total throughout 2016, both at Barcelona and in pre-season, AUTOSPORT has learned.

With a record-breaking 21-race calendar for next year on the cards, a decision has been taken to limit the overall number of test days over the course of the campaign.

In stark contrast to recent seasons when three or four four-day pre-season tests have been held, the 10 existing teams and newcomer Haas will now have only eight days to prepare their cars before the season-opening grand prix in Australia on April 3.

Both tests will take place at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, with the first from March 1-4 and the second running from March 15-18.

In addition, and for the first time since 2011, there will be no in-season testing.

Teams have often used in-season tests over the past four years to give their reserve drivers a run out, or to run the rule over young up-and-coming names.

This year two two-day in-season tests took place at Barcelona, and also the Red Bull Ring in Austria, with a number of prospects given a chance.

But such an avenue for those looking to put themselves on the radar of F1's teams is blocked for next year.

