As the new Formula 1 season approaches, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and make some predictions about what could happen in 2026. Some of these may seem bold, but each has a realistic chance of becoming reality as teams head into the first race of the year.
One of the strongest possibilities is that Ferrari could finally end its long championship drought. The team hasn’t won a constructors’ title since 2008 or a drivers’ title since 2007, but preseason testing showed promising pace, especially from Charles Leclerc. With a fast car, strong starts, and a driver lineup that includes both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari could realistically challenge for either the drivers’ or constructors’ championship if it avoids the mistakes that have cost it in the past.
Another storyline to watch is the rivalry between George Russell and Max Verstappen. Russell enters the season as one of the favorites for the driver’s title, and tensions between the two drivers have already been building over the past few seasons. Their previous on-track clashes and public criticism of one another suggest that if they end up battling for wins this year, the rivalry could produce some dramatic moments on track.
Aston Martin is another team facing major questions. What was expected to be the start of a new era for the team has quickly turned into a difficult situation, largely due to issues with its new Honda engine. If the problems continue, it could lead to a frustrating season for Fernando Alonso, who is still chasing a third world title late in his career. With his contract ending soon and the team struggling, Alonso’s future in Formula 1 could become uncertain.
The new regulations may also create a very competitive start to the season. Early testing suggests the top four teams—Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren - are relatively close in performance. If that continues into the early races, it’s possible that each of those teams could win a race before the summer break, creating one of the most competitive starts to an F1 season in years.
There are also some intriguing possibilities further down the grid. McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could have a close internal battle again, with Piastri potentially winning more races this season if he can regain the form he showed earlier in 2025. Meanwhile, Haas could emerge as a surprise in the midfield, and young driver Oliver Bearman may even have a chance to score the team’s first-ever podium finish if the right opportunity arises.
Finally, there is speculation about Christian Horner’s future in the sport. After leaving Red Bull, the longtime team principal could return to Formula 1 with Alpine if ongoing discussions about investment and leadership changes move forward.
With new regulations, fresh rivalries, and several teams showing strong potential, the 2026 Formula 1 season could deliver one of the most unpredictable and exciting championships in recent memory.