The 2026 Formula 1 driver lineup has been finalized nine months before the season begins, marking an unusually early confirmation for all 20 grid slots. This stability comes as teams prepare for a major technical regulation change, with many opting for continuity in their partnerships.
Main News
The grid for the 2026 F1 season is now completely set. All ten teams have confirmed their driver pairings well in advance of the new season.
Lewis Hamilton will drive for Ferrari, having activated a release clause in his Mercedes contract. He will partner Charles Leclerc, who has a long-term agreement with the Italian team.
Reigning champion Max Verstappen remains with Oracle Red Bull Racing, having signed a contract through 2028. His teammate will continue to be Sergio Pérez.
McLaren has retained both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Mercedes has confirmed George Russell, who will be joined by teenage rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, promoted from their junior program.
Aston Martin’s lineup will be Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Alpine has Pierre Gasly and new signing Carlos Sainz, who is leaving Ferrari. Sainz will be joined by Gabriel Bortoleto, a Formula 2 champion.
VCARB will field Isack Hadjar and Yuki Tsunoda. Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber has signed Nico Hülkenberg and Audi factory driver Carlos Sainz. Haas has confirmed Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman, another promising rookie.
Williams has locked in Alexander Albon and F2 champion Felipe Drugovich, who will make his full-time debut.
Summary
The entire 22-driver grid for the 2026 F1 season has been confirmed exceptionally early. This provides unprecedented stability as teams focus on developing cars for the sport’s next major technical era.
A significant move is seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari to partner Charles Leclerc. This has triggered other changes, including Carlos Sainz’s move to Alpine.
The grid will feature several new full-time drivers. These include Mercedes junior Andrea Kimi Antonelli, F2 champion Felipe Drugovich at Williams, Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman at Haas, and Alpine reserve driver Gabriel Bortoleto.
Max Verstappen remains at Red Bull, while other top teams like McLaren have retained their current successful pairings. This results in a mix of established veterans and highly-touted rookies for the 2026 campaign.
FAQs
Why is the 2026 grid confirmed so early?
Teams have chosen to secure their driver lineups well in advance of major new technical regulations coming in 2026. This allows for stable development and planning within the teams.
Which teams are introducing new rookie drivers?
Four rookies will join the grid in 2026: Andrea Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes, Felipe Drugovich at Williams, Oliver Bearman at Haas, and Gabriel Bortoleto at Alpine. All are champions in junior categories.
Where is Carlos Sainz racing in 2026?
Carlos Sainz will leave Ferrari at the end of 2024. For the 2026 season, he has signed with the Alpine F1 Team.
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