F1 2026 Driver Market: Cadillac Enters, Bottas in Play, Verstappen Speculation Explodes

The 2026 Formula 1 driver market is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. At the centre of the drama is Max Verstappen, who is now rumoured to be considering a shock switch from Red Bull to Mercedes. This speculation comes just as Red Bull parted ways with team principal Christian Horner, raising questions about whether the move was an effort to convince Verstappen to stay put.

As Verstappen’s future remains uncertain, another former Red Bull driver is making headlines. Sergio Perez, after stepping away from the grid, is now being linked with a return through Cadillac, which will join Formula 1 in 2026. His experience could make him a key asset for the new team, and his comeback would add another twist to an already turbulent driver market.

Also in the mix is Valtteri Bottas, a 10-time race winner who could make a return to the grid. Both Alpine and Cadillac are reportedly interested, with teams seeking reliable, experienced drivers to help navigate a changing landscape. With so many moves in play and new teams entering the sport, the 2026 season promises a major shake-up across the paddock.

Also Read: F1: Christian Horner Removed as Red Bull Racing Boss in a Shocking Move

With that in mind, here's how the 2026 driver market is shaping up so far.

McLaren

McLaren heads into 2026 with one of the most stable driver line-ups on the grid. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are under contract, and depending on how this season ends, either could arrive as the reigning world champion. Their strong performances and growing chemistry make them a reliable pair as the team looks ahead to new regulations.

While other teams are still sorting out contracts, McLaren has the freedom to focus entirely on development. The settled line-up means there are no distractions in the background—just the goal of delivering a competitive car from the first race.

Ferrari

Ferrari has its 2026 plans locked in with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton forming a powerful duo. Leclerc extended his contract in early 2024, while Hamilton signed on for both 2025 and 2026. Their vast experience gives Ferrari one of the strongest pairings on the grid.

Leclerc and Hamilton will be key to bringing Ferrari back to the front as they chase championship success once again.

Red Bull

Max Verstappen may be under contract until 2028, but his future at Red Bull isn’t certain. Speculation continues to grow around a possible move to Mercedes, especially after rumours of a meeting with Toto Wolff. Red Bull’s decision to part ways with Christian Horner has only added fuel to the fire.

Things are also unclear with the second seat. Yuki Tsunoda stepped in mid-season to replace Liam Lawson but hasn’t locked down the spot. With both seats now under a cloud, Red Bull faces big decisions ahead of 2026.

Mercedes

Mercedes currently has George Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli in its line-up, but things could change. Russell’s contract ends in 2025, and with no extension announced yet, the door seems open for Max Verstappen if talks with Red Bull break down.

Antonelli has shown promise and is already drawing comparisons to a young Verstappen. Still, if the Dutch driver does make the switch, one of the current drivers will likely step aside, making Mercedes’ 2026 plans one of the most watched stories of the season.

Aston Martin

Aston Martin is expected to carry its current line-up into 2026, with Fernando Alonso staying on and Lance Stroll retaining his place at the team owned by his father. Though there were brief rumours about a Verstappen move, those talks have now quietened down.

The arrival of Adrian Newey as a technical advisor has given both drivers renewed optimism. With a strong technical mind behind the scenes, Aston Martin hopes to take a step forward when the new regulations arrive.

Alpine

Pierre Gasly has committed his future to Alpine, signing a multi-year extension that takes him into 2026. But the identity of his teammate remains uncertain. Jack Doohan was dropped mid-season, and Franco Colapinto was brought in to finish the year.

Colapinto’s performance is under review, but Alpine is also considering other options, including Valtteri Bottas. With no clear favourite yet, the team’s second seat remains one of the most open contests on the grid.

Haas

Haas has already firmed up its line-up for 2026, securing both Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman on multi-year deals. Ocon brings the experience needed to guide the team, while Bearman represents the team’s faith in young talent.

Racing Bulls

Racing Bulls, Red Bull’s sister team, is still undecided on its 2026 driver line-up. Isack Hadjar has impressed during his rookie season, and Liam Lawson, who was demoted from the main team, is also in the picture. Final choices here will likely depend on Red Bull’s broader strategy.

Williams

Williams is looking ahead to 2026 with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon in its garage. The team hopes this strong pairing will help them move further up the field.

With driver plans mostly in place, the focus is now on building a car that can make the most of their talent.

Sauber (Audi in 2026)

As Sauber transitions into Audi’s works team in 2026, both Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are expected to stay. Hulkenberg brings three years of stability, while Bortoleto is part of Audi’s long-term development plan.

This confirmed line-up offers Audi a smooth start as it enters Formula 1 as a full constructor. With experienced and future-focused drivers, Audi is aiming for a balanced approach in its debut season.

Cadillac

Cadillac will join the F1 grid in 2026 but has yet to announce its drivers. Although the team initially explored the idea of signing an American, it now seems more likely they’ll go with experienced names like Valtteri Bottas or Sergio Perez. Even Mick Schumacher is in consideration for the seat.

The goal is to combine experience with potential, possibly through a veteran-rookie line-up. With two seats open, Cadillac’s choices will play a big role in shaping its first season in the sport.

With key contracts still undecided and rumours growing by the day, teams are keeping fans guessing. As new entrants join and big names consider switches, the 2026 Formula 1 driver market could reshape the grid like never before.