The Exciting Entry List for the 2026 Formula 1 Season

The 2026 Formula 1 season is shaping up to be a thrilling chapter in the sport’s storied history, featuring an official entry list that includes 11 teams. This list, published by the FIA, presents a mix of familiar names and newcomers, making it a highly anticipated season for fans and teams alike. Among the highlights is the introduction of Cadillac as a new team and the transformation of Sauber into Audi, marking significant changes in the current landscape of Formula 1.

A New Era for Sauber and Audi

For 33 years, the Sauber name has been a fixture in Formula 1, but this season will see the end of that era as Audi takes over the team. Despite the transition, the FIA’s entry list still recognizes the team as Sauber Motorsport AG. This indicates that the legal process for changing the team’s name is still underway. However, fans can expect to see the squad racing under the banner of Audi Revolut F1 Team, following a major sponsorship agreement with the fintech company Revolut.

The name change symbolizes a broader shift in Formula 1, where brand identities evolve and adapt to new partnerships and ownership structures. As Audi steps into the spotlight, it brings a wealth of automotive expertise and racing heritage, which could significantly impact the competitive landscape of the sport.

Changes Among Established Teams

Several established teams are also making adjustments to their names and sponsorships for the upcoming season. McLaren, for instance, has elevated its partnership with Mastercard, rebranding itself as the McLaren Mastercard F1 Team. This marks the first time in years that McLaren has secured a full title sponsorship, harking back to its previous associations with Vodafone.

Meanwhile, Haas has formed a new partnership with Toyota, resulting in its rebranding as the TGR Haas F1 Team. These changes reflect the dynamic nature of Formula 1, where teams continually seek to enhance their competitive edge through strategic alliances.

Notable Driver Movements

The driver lineup for the 2026 season also promises to be intriguing. Reigning champion Lando Norris will switch his car number from #4 to #1, a customary practice for the current world champion. Max Verstappen, the outgoing champion, will not revert to his previous number #33, instead taking the #3 that was once held by his former Red Bull teammate, Daniel Ricciardo.

This season will see the entry of a rookie driver, Arvid Lindblad, who will don the number 41. The 18-year-old British driver is stepping in for Isack Hadjar, who has been promoted to Red Bull, leaving Yuki Tsunoda off the grid as he takes on a role as Red Bull’s test and reserve driver.

Two veteran drivers, Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, are making a return after missing the 2025 season. Both race-winning drivers will join the newly formed Cadillac team, adding experience and skill to the lineup as the team embarks on its inaugural season in Formula 1.

Comprehensive Entry List for the 2026 Season

The FIA has released a detailed entry list which includes the drivers, their respective teams, and the chassis and power units they will be using. Here’s a breakdown of the entry list for the 2026 Formula 1 season:

McLaren Mastercard F1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Lando Norris (#1)
  • Oscar Piastri (#81)
• Chassis: McLaren
• Power Unit: Mercedes

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team

• Drivers:
  • George Russell (#63)
  • Andrea Kimi Antonelli (#12)
• Chassis: Mercedes
• Power Unit: Mercedes

Oracle Red Bull Racing

• Drivers:
  • Max Verstappen (#3)
  • Isack Hadjar (#6)
• Chassis: Red Bull Racing
• Power Unit: Red Bull Ford

Scuderia Ferrari HP

• Drivers:
  • Charles Leclerc (#16)
  • Lewis Hamilton (#44)
• Chassis: Ferrari
• Power Unit: Ferrari

Atlassian Williams F1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Alexander Albon (#23)
  • Carlos Sainz (#55)
• Chassis: Atlassian Williams
• Power Unit: Mercedes

Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Arvid Lindblad (#41)
  • Liam Lawson (#30)
• Chassis: Racing Bulls
• Power Unit: Red Bull Ford

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team

• Drivers:
  • Lance Stroll (#18)
  • Fernando Alonso (#14)
• Chassis: Aston Martin Aramco
• Power Unit: Honda

TGR Haas F1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Esteban Ocon (#31)
  • Oliver Bearman (#87)
• Chassis: Haas
• Power Unit: Ferrari

Audi Revolut F1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Nico Hülkenberg (#27)
  • Gabriel Bortoleto (#5)
• Chassis: Audi
• Power Unit: Audi

Cadillac Formula 1 Team

• Drivers:
  • Sergio Perez (#11)
  • Valtteri Bottas (#77)
• Chassis: Cadillac
• Power Unit: Ferrari

The Road Ahead

As the 2026 season approaches, teams and drivers are gearing up for an intense battle on the racetrack. With new entrants like Cadillac, the transformation of Sauber into Audi, and the shifting dynamics within established teams, fans can expect a season filled with excitement and unpredictability.

The changes in team names, sponsorships, and driver lineups not only reflect the evolving landscape of Formula 1 but also set the stage for new rivalries and stories to unfold over the course of the season. With each race, teams will vie for supremacy, striving to push the limits of technology and skill in pursuit of victory.

As preparations continue and anticipation builds, the 2026 Formula 1 season promises to deliver thrilling moments, dramatic races, and unforgettable memories for fans around the world. The journey is just beginning, and the excitement is palpable as the teams prepare to compete in one of the most prestigious motorsport championships on the planet.