F1 season predictions: Our picks for 2026’s title race, surprises and one ‘dumpster fire’
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- The 2026 Formula 1 season introduces new cars, engines, and rules, creating significant uncertainty about team and driver performance ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.
- Most analysts predict Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren to dominate the constructors' championship, with Mercedes favored to finish first due to a strong engine and driver lineup.
- George Russell is widely tipped as the leading driver contender for the championship, with Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Charles Leclerc also expected to be competitive.
- Haas is considered the top midfield team likely to finish fifth, while Aston Martin and Cadillac are predicted to struggle, with Aston Martin facing significant technical and reliability challenges.
- Key storylines include Verstappen's future with Mercedes, Hamilton's potential comeback,
