F1 2026: Which Drivers Are Confirmed for Next Season?

Formula 1 is already beginning to take shape for 2026, and the main new development will be Cadillac's debut as the 11th team on the grid. Backed by General Motors, the team has confirmed its first drivers: Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. The pair bring extensive experience, with more than 500 starts in the category between them, as well as victories and podium finishes over recent seasons. The choice reflects the team's strategy of relying on established names to ensure stability in its first World Championship challenge.

For Pérez, this marks a return to Formula 1 after leaving Red Bull in 2024 and spending 2025 off the grid. At 36, the Mexican will have the opportunity to extend his career in the category through an unprecedented project. Bottas, meanwhile, served as a reserve driver last year and now returns to a leading role as a full-time driver, joining forces with his new teammate. Both drivers have signed multiyear contracts with Cadillac, signaling a medium- to long-term project.

With Cadillac's arrival, the 2026 grid will have 22 drivers and 11 teams, something not seen since Manor's departure in 2016. Of the 22 seats, 16 have already been filled: Ferrari continues with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, McLaren retains Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, Aston Martin will once again have Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, while Haas has confirmed Esteban Ocon and young Oliver Bearman. Williams will field Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz Jr., while Audi, which is taking Sauber's place, will have Nico Hülkenberg alongside Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto.

Despite most seats having been filled, the driver market remains active. Red Bull, for example, has only Max Verstappen confirmed, leaving the second seat undecided. Mercedes has yet to announce any driver for 2026 following Hamilton's departure, and Alpine has also not finalized its full lineup. As a result, six seats remain open, which should keep negotiations moving until the start of next season.

Drivers Confirmed by Team for 2026