With 12 races remaining in the 2026 Formula 1 season, the grid could look drastically different next year, as up to 11 drivers are out of contract at the end of the season. Express Sport has predicted how the F1 grid could shape up for 2027.
McLaren and Mercedes keep their pairings
McLaren are expected to retain Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, with both drivers tied down through 2026. Piastri has two more years left on his deal, while Norris's contract runs out in 2027, but the team's recent successes make a continued partnership likely.
At Mercedes, George Russell's official deal runs until the end of 2026, according to Sky Sports News, although the driver himself says he is staying put. Kimi Antonelli's contract is also up at the season's conclusion, but it is highly unlikely that Toto Wolff will allow the rising star to depart.
Red Bull and Ferrari face changes
Max Verstappen has signed a new Red Bull deal until 2030, so the team may promote Liam Lawson to their main squad for 2027 to provide competition and glimpse the Dutchman's potential successor. Lawson's contract with Racing Bulls ends this year, and with eight top-10 finishes so far, he could make amends for being dropped by Red Bull after just two races in 2025. Isack Hadjar, replaced by Lawson for the Dutch Grand Prix after injury, could be ousted if Lawson impresses.
At Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton could call time on his career, especially if he wins a record-breaking eighth World Championship title. The British icon joined Ferrari in 2025 and sits 50 points behind leader Antonelli. Charles Leclerc signed his latest deal in June and is set to remain, with Oliver Bearman arriving from Haas as a potential replacement for Hamilton.
Williams, Racing Bulls, and Aston Martin
Alex Albon's contract runs until the end of the 2027 season, and Carlos Sainz penned a new deal on Wednesday to remain a Williams driver for 2027 and beyond, putting doubts over his future to bed.
With Lawson promoted to Red Bull, Racing Bulls could opt for Nikola Tsolov to join Arvid Lindblad. Tsolov currently leads the F2 standings and is scheduled for an F1 test, with team leadership viewing him as ready for the step up. Lindblad will likely remain, given 2026 is his rookie season.
At Aston Martin, there is no indication Lance Stroll will leave, especially given that his father Lawrence owns the team. However, Fernando Alonso may decide to retire, leaving a spot for Esteban Ocon to step in from Haas.
Audi, Haas, Cadillac, and Alpine
Audi may re-sign Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg for continuity, as both contracts are up at the end of the season. Hulkenberg signed a multi-year contract when he joined last year, while Bortoleto could benefit from another year of learning.
Haas would gladly pounce on Hadjar's podium pedigree after Ocon's and Bearman's departures, with Dino Beganovic given a shot after showing promise in F2. Cadillac will likely keep Sergio Perez, who signed a multi-year deal, and Valtteri Bottas, whose deal runs through 2027.
Alpine may stick to the status quo, with Pierre Gasly announcing a new contract last September to remain until 2028. Franco Colapinto has the backing of executive advisor Flavio Briatore after replacing Jack Doohan in 2025, and six top-10 finishes this campaign has proven his worth.
