Formula 1 will run only two tests in total throughout 2016, both at Barcelona and in preseason.

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 3–4 four-day preseason 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.