The complete Formula 1 driver line-up for the 2026 season is beginning to take shape. Let’s take a closer look at which drivers have already been confirmed for next year and which seats are still uncertain.
Several contracts have already been finalized, while others remain under negotiation. Fans should also keep an eye out for surprises, as the 2026 season will bring major changes to the regulations. Stake Sauber will officially become Audi, and Cadillac will make its long-awaited debut in Formula 1. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s situation looks particularly complex.
Uncertain line-up at Red Bull and Racing Bulls
Max Verstappen is the only confirmed driver at Red Bull, with a contract running through 2028—although a potential exit clause could allow him to leave in 2027. The team has yet to decide who will partner the reigning world champion. Yuki Tsunoda has been confirmed only until the end of 2025, leaving his 2026 future open.
At Racing Bulls, the uncertainty continues. Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar will race together in 2025, but both could find themselves in different positions next season. The most likely scenario, according to current paddock speculation, is that Hadjar could be promoted to the senior Red Bull team.
Gasly confirmed at Alpine, while Colapinto’s seat remains uncertain
In the Alpine camp, Pierre Gasly is the only driver already confirmed for 2026. The Frenchman will remain the leading figure within the team. However, Franco Colapinto’s position looks less secure due to the disappointing results recorded so far this season. The team may consider reshuffling its line-up if performance does not improve.
Mercedes keeps faith in Russell and Antonelli
Mercedes has made its line-up official for the new season. George Russell and young Italian talent Kimi Antonelli will continue as teammates in 2026. The pair represent Mercedes’ long-term project, with Antonelli seen as the brand’s next-generation star following Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.
Cadillac confirms Pérez and Bottas for its F1 debut
Cadillac has unveiled its first Formula 1 driver line-up, marking its debut in the 2026 championship. The American manufacturer will rely on experience, confirming Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas as its two full-time drivers. Both bring years of F1 experience and are expected to help the team establish a strong foundation in its first year on the grid.
Full Formula 1 2026 driver line-up (so far)
Here’s the complete picture of the 2026 F1 driver grid, based on the latest confirmations and current team projections:
RED BULL – Max Verstappen – Isack Hadjar
FERRARI – Charles Leclerc – Lewis Hamilton
MERCEDES – George Russell – Kimi Antonelli
MCLAREN – Lando Norris – Oscar Piastri
ASTON MARTIN – Fernando Alonso – Lance Stroll
ALPINE – Pierre Gasly – Franco Colapinto
WILLIAMS – Alexander Albon – Carlos Sainz
RACING BULLS – Liam Lawson – Arvid Lindblad
AUDI (formerly Sauber Stake) – Nico Hulkenberg – Gabriel Bortoleto
HAAS – Oliver Bearman – Esteban Ocon
CADILLAC – Valtteri Bottas – Sergio Pérez
Isack Hadjar is promoted to Red Bull, which says goodbye to Yuki Tsunoda (who will be a reserve driver in 2026); Arvid Lindblad will make his Formula 1 debut alongside Liam Lawson at RACING BULLS.
The 2026 season promises to be one of the most dynamic and unpredictable in years. With new regulations, team rebranding, and fresh partnerships on the grid, the landscape of Formula 1 is set for a major transformation. Fans can expect a mix of experienced champions and rising stars shaping the next chapter of F1 history.
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