Formula 1 has arrived in 2026, with the Australian Grand Prix kicking things off this week.
That’s all changed this year, with a complete overhaul of the cars in an attempt to bring more exciting racing. In short, the cars are shorter, narrower and designed to encourage more overtaking, especially on tighter street circuits.
It could see a real shake-up of the order and early suggestions suggest that Mercedes are the team to beat. Red Bull will of course be there or thereabouts thanks to the indomitable Max Verstappen, while McLaren’s Lando Norris will be eyeing back-to-back world championships.
How to listen to Formula 1 on BBC Radio 5 Live
To access BBC Radio 5 Live’s Formula 1 coverage for 2026, you have several options, including BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport website and the BBC Sport app (iOS/Android) are also available.
Programming will go out on Radio 5 Live Sports Extra — with their full program available to watch here.
To listen you need a BBC account – sign up here.
And if you miss any of the action, you’ll be able to listen to the F1: Checkered Flag Podcast, where they’ll discuss the goings-on at the tournament in depth.
Can I access Formula 1 coverage on BBC Sounds from overseas or on holiday?
Yes. UK residents wishing to listen to F1 traveling abroad can still access the BBC Sounds app via a VPN. We recommend NordVPN, which comes with 73% off, 3 extra months free and an Amazon gift card right now…
How to unblock BBC Sounds with a VPN
If you’re currently outside the UK and blocked from using BBC Sounds, you can still access the app thanks to the wonders of a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
The software allows your devices to look like they are back in your home country, no matter where you are in the world. So ideal for listeners away at work or on holiday who want a taste of home.
NordVPN is our favorite:
BBC Sound Troubleshooting Tips
If you still can’t access BBC Sounds, even using a VPN, there are a few more things you can try.
Make sure your BBC account is linked to a valid UK postcode, such as SE1 7PB.
The BBC Sounds app (iOS / Android) doesn’t appear on the Play Store or App Store outside of the UK, but you may be able to get around that by changing your phone’s region in the settings menu.
The BBC, like most broadcasters and networks, is engaged in a never-ending cat-and-mouse battle with VPN providers.
Although we have ranked the best iPlayer VPNs, something we have compiled through thorough testing, there is no guarantee that the same will be the case tomorrow if one of them works today, in which case you can raise the issue with your VPN provider’s customer support team and ask them to recommend the best server to connect to.
We test and review VPN services for legitimate recreational use. For example: 1. Accessing a Service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that Service). 2. Protecting your online security and enhancing your online privacy when you are abroad. We do not support or condone illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consumption of paid-for pirated content is neither endorsed nor endorsed by Future Publishing.
