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From familiar names to one promising rookie, here are the newcomers in the 2026 F1 paddock.
Changes are in store as the Formula 1 season gets closer to opening weekend. In terms of regulations, we’re bound to see new-look cars featuring smaller and more nimbler cars, along with the departure of Drag Reduction System (DRS) for an “Overtake Mode”. There are also the new power unit regulations, which ensures a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power.
Apart from the new technical regulations, we’re also going to see some new faces (and teams) for this season. In case you missed it, here’s a quick guide you can read up on.
Rookie to watch
Only one rookie, Racing Bulls’ Arvid Lindblad, will be debuting for the 2026 season, replacing French-Algerian youngster Isack Hadjar. At just 18, Lindblad is one of the youngest drivers to make their F1 debut, joining the likes of Red Bull ace Max Verstappen, and Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll.
Lindblad has been part of Red Bull’s development team since 2021, and is no stranger to making history in the feeder series. He’s the youngest-ever race winner in both Formula 2 and Formula 3, while his four wins in F3 is actually the most by a rookie.
Now promoted to the big leagues, Lindblad looks to make a splash as he joins Liam Lawson over at Racing Bulls.
American invasion
Technically speaking, only Cadillac will be the new team on the grid, bringing a veteran duo composed of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. Still, it’s a historic debut, as they become the first independent constructor to join F1 since Haas. Not to mention, Cadillac also increases American presence on the grid, given that it’s a highly-recognizable company associated with the United States.
Cadillac will reportedly race with Ferrari engines in the meantime, before moving on to American-made engines by General Motors by 2029. Should things go according to plan, then it’s another step to increasing the American footprint on a predominantly European grid.
Though they’re only acquiring Sauber, Audi will also be joining the F1 grid for 2026, serving as the latest chapter in their motorsports story. Prior to F1, Audi has found success in top-flight circuits including Le Mans, the World Rally Championship (WRC), and the German Touring Car Masters (DTM).
Featuring youngster Gabriel Bortoleto and veteran Nico Hulkenberg, Audi’s F1 debut also opens a new chapter in their rivalry with Mercedes — a storyline that’s sure to become interesting once Audi finds their stride on the F1 grid.
The 2026 F1 season opens this March 8 with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. For Filipino fans looking to stream the action, check out The GAME’s watch guide here.
Banner images from Cadillac F1 Team on Facebook.
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