The 2026 Formula One season starts on 8 March in Australia – and the driver line-up for next year is beginning to take shape.

While numerous teams have long-term agreements with their drivers – such as McLaren, Ferrari and Williams – some teams are yet to confirm their two drivers in the cockpit for 2026.

Max Verstappen recently confirmed he will be staying at Red Bull next year , but Mercedes are yet to announce contract extensions for George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.

Meanwhile, American-owned Cadillac join the grid next year as the sport’s 11th team and have announced the signing of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas .

With focus quickly shifting to next year – when new engine and chassis regulations come into force – The Independent takes a look at the driver line-up

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