Formula 1 has confirmed its 22-driver lineup for the 2026 season across 11 teams, highlighted by Cadillac's entry with Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. Building on the major regulation overhauls—like active aerodynamics replacing DRS and 50-50 sustainable hybrid engines—the season opens March 6 in Australia with 24 races.
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, the grid is set with 11 teams and 22 drivers, per reports from El Financiero. Key moves include Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez returning with Cadillac alongside Valtteri Bottas; Red Bull pairing Max Verstappen with Isack Hadjar (Yuki Tsunoda to RB reserve); Mercedes' George Russell and Kimi Antonelli; Ferrari retaining its duo; and Audi blending experience with youth.
Cars are lighter (768 kg), shorter (chassis -200 mm, floor -100 mm), with simplified wings, no Venturi tunnels, and active aerodynamics: closed for corners, open on straights, plus 'overtake mode' and boost button. Power units are 1.6L V6 turbos with tripled electric output (no MGU-H), 100% sustainable fuels from waste/biomass, and stronger safety features like a 23% tougher roll hoop.
Drivers remain cautious amid adaptation challenges previously highlighted, including Verstappen's energy management concerns and Hamilton's fan accessibility worries. Williams' Carlos Sainz emphasized driver input needs, while F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali touted innovation benefits.
The 24-race calendar features the Mexico GP (Oct 30-Nov 1) and six Sprints (China, Miami, Canada, UK, Netherlands, Singapore). Lando Norris enters as the 2025 drivers' champion.
