Full 2026 F1 Grid & Major Changes Revealed
Formula 1 is set for a massive shake-up in 2026 with new technical regulations, a completely revamped car design, and the entry of American manufacturer Cadillac as the 11th team. The season will feature 24 races, including a new street circuit in Madrid, and a significantly altered driver market with major names in new seats. These changes are expected to dramatically reshuffle the grid and create an unpredictable new era for the sport.
The 2025 Formula 1 season is building to a thrilling climax, but attention is already turning to a significantly revamped 2026. With new regulations, a new team, and a reshuffled driver market, the sport is gearing up for one of its biggest overhauls in recent memory.
Why it matters:
The 2026 season marks a pivotal moment for Formula 1 with a complete technical regulation overhaul impacting power units, chassis, and aerodynamics. These changes are expected to dramatically shake up the pecking order, potentially ending long-standing team dominations and creating opportunities for new contenders. The introduction of Cadillac as the 11th team and a new street circuit in Madrid further underscore the sport's evolving landscape and global expansion.
The details:
- Calendar Expansion: The 2026 season will feature 24 rounds, starting in Melbourne (March 6-8) and concluding in Abu Dhabi (December 4-6).
- New Race Venue: Madrid will host a new street race in September, while Imola has been removed from the schedule.
- New Team: American manufacturer Cadillac will join the grid, bringing the total number of teams to 11 for the first time since 2016.
- Driver Line-ups: The confirmed (or strongly rumored) driver pairings for 2026 are:
- McLaren: Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri
- Mercedes: George Russell, Kimi Antonelli
- Red Bull: Max Verstappen, Isack Hadjar
- Ferrari: Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton
- Williams: Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon
- Racing Bulls: Liam Lawson, Arvid Lindblad
- Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll
- Haas: Esteban Ocon, Oliver Bearman
- Audi: Nico Hulkenberg, Gabriel Bortoleto
- Alpine: Pierre Gasly, Franco Colapinto
- Cadillac: Sergio Perez, Valtteri Bottas
- Regulatory Overhaul: The 2026 technical regulations represent a 'complete overhaul,' with major changes to the power unit, chassis, and aerodynamic rules. This includes the removal of DRS in favor of moving wings, aiming for closer racing and more overtaking. Sky Sports F1's Martin Brundle has described these as the "biggest changes ever" in F1.
- Long-term Impact: Teams have been working on their 2026 cars for an extended period, as these regulations are set to remain in place for five seasons. Early success next year could establish long-term competitive advantages, reminiscent of Mercedes' dominant run from 2014-2016.
What's next:
With the new regulations promising a significant shift in the competitive order, the 2026 season is poised to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. Teams that adapt quickest to the new power unit and aerodynamic designs will likely emerge as early frontrunners, setting the tone for the coming years. The debut of Cadillac and the new Madrid Grand Prix will add further excitement and new narratives to the Formula 1 calendar.