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Picture: Cadillac F1

Latest update: 02/12/2025

F1 2026 Driver Lineup: Confirmed Seats & Cadillac’s Entry

As the Formula 1 world shifts focus toward the 2026 grid, decisions are rapidly shaping and reshaping the season ahead. There’s been a lot of rumours circling many drivers and teams in the past few months. Here’s the most current view of who’s confirmed and which seats are still up for grabs.

Red Bull

F1 Red Bull's current and ex drivers - Max Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber.

Picture: Givemesport

 

  • Isack Hadjar: On the 2nd of December, it was announced that Hadjar will be Max Verstappens teammate. The rookie has had a very impressive debut season and hence, he has been promoted from Racing Bulls to the main Red Bull lineup for the 2026 F1 season. Yuki Tsunoda will remain as the reserve driver for both Red Bull teams for the 2026 season.

Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton is on a multi- year contract with Ferrari expected to run into 2027. Charles Leclerc is on a multi- year contract with Ferrari rumoured to run into 2029. Ferrari has long- term plans with its both highly established drivers.

McLaren

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri: Both locked in through 2026 and likely beyond. One of the best pairings on the grid with both drivers being young and hungry to keep the momentum rolling from 2025 into 2026.

Mercedes

F1 Mercedes' teams 2025 lineup - Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.

Picture: Mercedes F1

  • George Russell: Contract ends in 2025. Russell is chasing a multi year deal and with rumours about Toto Wolff being in talks with Max Verstappen – the seat remains open for 2026. UPDATE (23/10): George Russells contract has been extended to 2026.

 

  • Kimi Antonelli: Contract ends in 2025. Antonelli is having an impressive rookie season, so most likely the contract will be renewed for 2026, but nothing has been confirmed yet. UPDATE (23/10): Kimi Antonellis contract has been extended to 2026.

Audi (formerly Kick Sauber)

Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto: Both retained for 2026. Hülkenberg is supposedly on a multi year deal with Bortoleto being given a chance with the newly formed Audi team.

Alpine

  • Pierre Gasly: Contract valid through 2026. Gasly signed a deal with Alpine in 2024 that reportedly runs through to the end of 2026.

 

  • Second Seat: on the 7th of November, during the Brazilian Grand Prix, it was announced that Franco Colapinto will be the second driver for Alpine for the 2026 season.

Williams, Haas & Aston Martin

Williams – Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz Jr.: Both confirmed for 2026 and reportedly on multi year contracts. One of the more exciting driver lineups with huge potential for 2026 and onwards.

Haas – Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman: Both confirmed for 2026. Haas bets on a mix of experience and youthful promise.

Aston Martin – Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll: Both confirmed for the 2026 season. Alonso is the core of the team and it will be exciting to follow how Newey’s design will be put to use by the Spaniard. Stroll contract isn’t running out anytime soon either.

Racing Bulls (Red Bull’s Junior Team)

F1 Racing Bulls 2025 rookie driver Isack Hadjar flexing.

Picture: Getty Images

On the 2nd of December, Red Bull and Racing Bulls announced their driver lineups for the 2026 season. As mentioned earlier, Isack Hadjar got the promotion to the main team, while Liam Lawson will find himself with a new teammate.

  • Liam Lawson will remain in his seat for the 2026 season.
  • Arvid Lindblad got the call from Racing Bulls and will be making his debut at the beginning of the 2026 season.

Racing Bulls keep on giving the chance to Red Bull Academy drivers, hoping to find the next Max Verstappen. Have they already found one with Isack Hadjar or will Arvid Lindblad be the next superstar?

Cadillac (New Team Debuting in 2026)

On the 27th of August, 2025 Cadillac F1 Team announced their 2026 driver lineup – Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. The rumors had been circulating for months regarding those two, but the question always remained – which direction will Cadillac choose when picking their drivers? Will they go for experience or youth? It’s clear now, as they have the most experienced driver lineup of the 2026 F1 Grid.
Circuitalks.com is an F1 blog dedicated to delivering in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive insights into the world of Formula 1. Focused on providing a comprehensive perspective for passionate F1 fans globally, Circuitalks.com covers everything from race weekends and driver performances to technical developments and behind-the-scenes stories. We strive to connect F1 enthusiasts with the latest information and engaging content.

 

 

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