The 2025 Formula 1 season has brought seismic shifts in the driver market, with only McLaren and Aston Martin retaining their previous year’s line-ups. As teams gear up for a transformative era, driver contracts have become a hot topic for speculation, particularly with the 2026 “silly season” already bubbling under the surface.
Here’s a breakdown of the current contracts and how they shape the driver market heading into the future.
McLaren: Long-Term Stability
- Lando Norris & Oscar Piastri
Norris and Piastri are locked in until the end of 2026, with McLaren hinting at an even longer commitment for Norris. With the pair proving to be a formidable duo, McLaren is banking on stability as it eyes a championship resurgence.
Ferrari: Star Power and Ambiguity
- Charles Leclerc
Leclerc’s extension through “several more seasons,” rumored to last until 2029 with a 2027 break clause, ensures Ferrari’s faith in their Monegasque star. - Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton’s blockbuster move from Mercedes is reportedly on a two-year deal, making 2025 a critical season for the seven-time champion.
Red Bull: Pressure on Lawson
- Max Verstappen
Despite being signed until 2028, rumors persist about Verstappen’s potential exit amidst Red Bull tensions and Mercedes’ interest. - Liam Lawson
The rookie faces immense pressure in his debut season, with Red Bull likely inserting a break clause if his performance doesn’t meet expectations.
Mercedes: Russell’s Big Gamble
- George Russell
Russell’s contract ends in 2025, making him a pivotal figure for the 2026 driver market. With Mercedes rumored to be eyeing Verstappen, Russell’s seat could be under threat. - Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Mercedes’ faith in their rising star signals a potential shake-up if Verstappen or Russell join forces.
Aston Martin: Locked and Loaded
- Fernando Alonso & Lance Stroll
Both drivers are confirmed through 2026, providing Aston Martin with stability as it continues its ambitious project.
Alpine: The Doohan Dilemma
- Jack Doohan
Alpine’s rookie faces a make-or-break season with a mid-year evaluation clause. Franco Colapinto’s shadow looms large as a potential replacement. - Pierre Gasly
Gasly’s extension through 2026 solidifies his place as Alpine’s cornerstone driver.
Haas: Fresh Faces, Big Expectations
- Esteban Ocon & Ollie Bearman
Ocon brings experience while Bearman’s rookie season could define Haas’ fortunes. Both are signed until 2026, but Bearman’s deal likely includes performance contingencies.
Racing Bulls (AlphaTauri Rebranded): Tsunoda’s Final Shot
- Yuki Tsunoda
Entering the final year of his deal, Tsunoda must deliver if he hopes to remain in the Red Bull orbit. - Isack Hadjar
The F2 runner-up has one season to prove he belongs in F1.
Williams: A Stellar Signing
- Alex Albon & Carlos Sainz
Albon’s reliability and Sainz’s arrival from Ferrari signal Williams’ intent to climb the grid. Both are locked in through 2026.
Sauber/Audi: A New Era
- Nico Hülkenberg & Gabriel Bortoleto
Hülkenberg’s experience and Bortoleto’s F2 title-winning potential mark a new dawn for the soon-to-be Audi factory team. Both are secured through 2026.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Driver Market
With contracts for key players like Russell, Doohan, and Tsunoda nearing their end, the 2026 driver market promises to be as dramatic as ever. Mercedes’ pursuit of Verstappen, Red Bull’s faith in Lawson, and Ferrari’s long-term gamble on Leclerc could reshape the grid once again.
ADVERTISEMENT
