The Formula 1 driver market for the 2027 season remains significantly open, with an official F1 update indicating 14 seats are currently unconfirmed. Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull Racing is a central factor in these ongoing discussions. His contract, which runs until the end of 2028, contains active exit clauses.
These clauses have reportedly become active following a challenging initial phase of the 2026 season for Red Bull. Verstappen has expressed concerns regarding the team’s performance trajectory for 2027 and beyond.
Speculation linking Verstappen to McLaren has intensified, with reports suggesting contact between his management and McLaren CEO Zak Brown. However, former F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen has cautioned McLaren against pursuing Verstappen.
‘If you would ask me what I would do, I would like to minimise that risk — that way you would lose this kind of team spirit if the team has two great drivers. Why rock the boat?’
Hakkinen highlighted the potential disruption to McLaren’s established driver pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Norris is contracted until at least 2027, and Piastri through 2028, providing stability.
Verstappen has also voiced consistent frustration with the 2026 car regulations, stating he had identified flaws as early as 2023. He recently indicated he is ‘fed up with repeating himself’ on the subject.
Meanwhile, Audi has provided clarity on its 2027 driver lineup. Gabriel Bortoleto confirmed a long-term, multi-year contract with the team, extending through 2030.
Bortoleto will partner Nico Hulkenberg for Audi’s 2027 campaign. Despite rumors linking Carlos Sainz to Audi, team CEO Mattia Binotto did not directly deny interest, but the current lineup is expected to remain.
Beyond Verstappen, Fernando Alonso’s contract with Aston Martin also concludes at the end of the 2026 season, making his decision another significant market influence.
Ferrari has secured its driver pairing, with Charles Leclerc committed beyond 2028 and Lewis Hamilton through 2027, with an option for 2028.
Mercedes currently lists both its 2027 seats as unconfirmed, although George Russell’s multi-year deal with performance clauses is expected to secure his position. Kimi Antonelli is also anticipated to remain.
Carlos Sainz’s future at Williams is uncertain, with performance-related exit clauses in his contract. He is actively evaluating his options for the 2027 season.
Other teams with open or uncertain seats for 2027 include the second Red Bull entry, Williams, Alpine, Haas, Racing Bulls, and Aston Martin.
