The 2026 Formula 1 season will feature 22 drivers on the grid, but which of them are already confirmed, and who is still waiting for their future to be decided? With only four races left in the 2025 championship – Brazil, Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi – the biggest topic of conversation, alongside the new regulations, is the driver market. Here’s the complete list of confirmed drivers for 2026 and the remaining open seats.
Among the latest teams to finalize their line-up is Mercedes, but several drivers are still uncertain about their future. Red Bull and Alpine, for example, each have one seat yet to be confirmed. Meanwhile, the new team joining the grid next season – Cadillac – has already announced its full line-up, which will expand the grid from 20 to 22 drivers. The American team revealed its drivers as early as August.
Current full line-up for 2026
McLaren – Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
In January 2024, Lando Norris extended his contract with McLaren, likely until 2027. Oscar Piastri had his deal renewed for the first time in September 2023 through 2026, and in March this year, the team announced a further extension until 2028.
Ferrari – Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton
Both Scuderia Ferrari drivers have been reconfirmed, each holding a multi-year agreement with the Maranello team. In 2024, Charles Leclerc renewed his contract through 2029, while Lewis Hamilton signed a deal lasting at least two years, with an option to extend through 2027.
Red Bull – Max Verstappen
Red Bull is one of the two teams with a seat still open. Max Verstappen is confirmed for 2026 and reportedly has a contract running until 2028, although he continues to evaluate his long-term future within Formula 1.
Mercedes – George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Mercedes recently confirmed both George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli for 2026. The announcement came on October 15, although the specific contract details have not been disclosed. Team principal Toto Wolff has expressed full confidence in his drivers and remains focused on developing Mercedes’ long-term project.
Williams – Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz
While not yet officially announced, both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz are expected to remain with Williams under multi-year agreements. Sainz, who joined the team at the start of 2025, is believed to have a deal extending into next season.
Audi (Sauber) – Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto
Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are confirmed for the 2026 season with Sauber, which will officially become Audi. Hülkenberg signed a multi-year agreement in early 2024, while Bortoleto was confirmed when he made his Formula 1 debut in 2025.
Aston Martin – Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll
Both Aston Martin drivers signed multi-year contracts back in 2024, ensuring their continuity with the team for 2026.
Alpine – Pierre Gasly
Alpine is the second team with one seat still open. Pierre Gasly is believed to have a contract until 2028, but his teammate for next year has not yet been decided. It is rumored that by the Brazilian Grand Prix, it will become clear whether Franco Colapinto will join the team or if another driver will take the seat.
Haas – Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman
Both Haas drivers, Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman, have been confirmed to continue with the team for 2026.
Racing Bulls – to be confirmed
Nothing has been officially confirmed yet for the Racing Bulls line-up. Both Isack Hadjar and Liam Lawson are awaiting official announcements regarding their seats for next season.
Cadillac – Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas
Cadillac, which will make its Formula 1 debut in 2026, announced in August that Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas will be its two drivers. Both bring significant F1 experience and have signed multi-year deals to help guide the new team in its first steps in the sport.
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