6 F1 Drivers Who Might Switch After 2026 – Talking To Other Teams

Our latest analysis explores the future of the grid and the 6 F1 drivers who might switch after 2026 as the sport enters a new era of racing.

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The landscape of Formula 1 is preparing for a massive seismic shift. Because of the new regulations, many drivers are reconsidering their current career paths. We have analyzed the situations of several stars who might find themselves elsewhere.

Whether it is retirement for some or new teams for others, change is coming. Therefore, fans should stay informed as the 2026 season approaches. This list of 6 F1 drivers who might switch after 2026 highlights the uncertainty. Because the stakes are so high, every single move will be calculated. Register at any of the online sportsbook sites in the US to bet on the future of F1!

Lewis Hamilton – 6 F1 Drivers Who Might Switch After 2026

Lewis Hamilton’s issue with Ferrari made all other drivers sad. In fact, we believe he will do his contract time and then quit. If that happens, Oliver Bearman can be the future of Ferrari. The young British driver already has ties to the Ferrari Driver Academy. Because he has shown great speed in junior categories, he fits their vision. Therefore, Hamilton’s departure could signal a total youth movement for the Scuderia. Lewis might feel that his quest for an eighth title is finally over. If the 2026 regulations do not favor Ferrari, he may lose his motivation. The legendary driver often speaks about his desire to pursue interests outside racing.

Because he loves fashion and social activism, he has many paths to follow. Thus, a retirement after 2026 would allow him to focus on these passions. Ferrari is a team built on high pressure and constant media scrutiny. Because Hamilton is now 40, the physical toll might become too much. Therefore, he probably views his Ferrari stint as a final, glorious chapter. He wants to win, but he also understands the reality of aging. Right now, Hamilton just seems broken. Register at MyBookie Sportsbook to bet on his next season!

Max Verstappen

He is the most questionable among the 6 F1 drivers who might switch after 2026. Even in his and the team’s worst, Verstappen almost won the WDC with Red Bull. This is enough for us to solidify the fact that he is here to stay. According to Racingnews 365, Verstappen wants to drive the fastest car. Thus, only McLaren could have a chance to charm him away from Red Bull at the moment. Because he is still young, Max has plenty of time to switch teams. However, he often talks about retiring early to pursue other racing categories.

Thus, he might not stay in Formula 1 as long as Hamilton. Because he dislikes the growing calendar and marketing demands, he feels quite drained. Therefore, Red Bull must keep him happy both on and off the track. If the atmosphere becomes too toxic, he will likely trigger an exit clause. Because his contract has performance markers, he holds a lot of power.

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George Russell – 6 F1 Drivers Who Might Switch After 2026

Mercedes has amazing victories, and we see Russell on the podium often. Yet, barely ever wins any 1st places, and he surely isn’t aiming for the WDC. The question here is: Is George Russell enjoying being the dominant driver next to the rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, or would he consider joining a team such as McLaren to finally win a WDC? Therefore, he could consider joining a team like McLaren to win championships. Because McLaren has a proven car, they could offer him a better seat. Russell is a driver who expects to be at the very top. However, if Mercedes continues to trail behind, his patience might eventually run out.

Thus, 2026 will be a defining year for his career trajectory. Because he has spent years waiting for a competitive car, he is hungry. Therefore, he will not accept being a secondary driver for much longer. Many fans wonder if he can ever emulate the success of Lewis Hamilton. Because the car is the limiting factor, it is hard to judge. Thus, a move to a rival manufacturer might provide the ultimate answer. Because Russell is managed by Mercedes, leaving would be a complex process. However, the driver market often ignores past loyalties when winning is at stake.

Carlos Sainz

While not exactly among the 6 F1 drivers who might switch after 2026, Sainz deserves to join a better-performing team the most. While Carlos Sainz has a solid contract with Williams, he is in the closest position to switch teams. Having experience in various teams and still performing well in Williams pretty much puts him in a position where any other team would want him. If Audi or Cadillac performs well, they could easily hire him over. Sainz has shown that he can win races against the very best drivers. Because he is a tactical thinker, he excels in changing race conditions.

Thus, teams value his intelligence as much as his raw driving speed. However, he is tired of being the “backup” option for major teams. Therefore, he seeks a project where he is the clear number one. Because Williams is still rebuilding, he might find that role elsewhere sooner. Thus, he remains a central figure in the 2026 driver market rumors.

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Charles Leclerc – 6 F1 Drivers Who Might Switch After 2026

Charles Leclerc is often called the “Prince of Maranello” by the Ferrari faithful. According to the F1 Oversteer, Charles Leclerc wants to spend the rest of his career at Ferrari. The brand, the payment, the vibe, the color, and the story. However, these are all sentimental things, and in reality, the car and the team are soon closing out his opportunities to win a WDC. In fact, in some races, rookies performed better than him. Leclerc has often been linked with a move to the Mercedes team. Because they appreciate his qualifying speed, they see him as a star. Thus, if Russell or Hamilton leaves, a seat could easily open up.

Because he is 28, he is entering the peak of his career. Therefore, he cannot afford to waste more years in a slow car. If Aston Martin becomes a powerhouse with Adrian Newey, they might call. Because they have big ambitions, they will want a driver like Charles. The emotional bond between Leclerc and the Tifosi is incredibly strong and deep. Because he represents their hopes, leaving would be seen as a betrayal. Thus, he will likely give Ferrari one last chance with the 2026 rules.

Oscar Piastri

Finally, Piastri is also among the 6 F1 drivers who might switch after 2026. According to SEN, Piastri is talking to other teams. It seems he is in the shadow of his teammate, Lando Norris, and wants a chance at winning the WDC. He has shown incredible composure and race craft for such a young driver. Because he rarely makes mistakes, every top team wants to sign him. However, McLaren will not let their prized asset leave without a fight. Thus, a massive legal or financial battle could occur in the future. Because Piastri is hungry for the WDC, he will follow the speed. Therefore, if Red Bull offers him a seat, he might take it. Because he wants to win now, he will not wait forever.

The internal rivalry at McLaren is becoming more intense with every passing race. Because both drivers are equally fast, team orders have become a problem. Thus, Mark Webber is looking for a better situation for his protégé. Because Piastri is a quiet character, he prefers to avoid the drama. However, he knows that he must be selfish to reach the top. Therefore, he is exploring all his options for the 2027 season and beyond. If a better opportunity arises, he will surely grab it. Register at MyBookie Sportsbook and bet on F1 online!

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