Champagne Shakedown - F1 2026 season preview

The 2026 Formula 1 season is poised to be one of the most significant turning points in the modern history of the sport. Sweeping technical regulation changes, the arrival of major new manufacturers, and the possible final campaigns of legendary drivers - all these factors are combining to create the potential for an entirely new chapter in Formula 1.

The biggest change comes in the form of the all-new car designs introduced for 2026. These regulations have been written with sustainability and closer racing firmly in mind. The cars will be smaller and lighter than the current generation. The DRS has been discontinued but new active aerodynamics will be a defining feature, with teams able to switch between different aerodynamic modes on straights and in corners. Power units will undergo an even more radical transformation, with electrical output providing half of the total power, alongside fully sustainable fuels for the internal combustion engine- indeed some commentators fear F1 is becoming akin to Formula E- we will have to hope the engines don’t end up producing the high-pitched whine of the electric cars. But, nonetheless, with such a clean-sheet approach, even the most established teams face uncertainty, opening the door for surprise contenders and dramatic shifts in the competitive order.

Adding to the sense of renewal is the arrival of two new works-backed teams. Audi’s long-anticipated entry finally becomes reality in 2026. The German brand, taking over the Sauber garage, brings enormous engineering resources, motorsport pedigree, and long-term intent, and its presence is expected to raise the overall technical standard of the grid.

Alongside Audi, Cadillac joins the championship with the backing of General Motors, delivering another landmark moment. Cadillac’s entry represents a major step for Formula 1 in the American market, where interest in the sport has surged in recent years. It adds a distinctly American identity to the grid and signals Formula 1’s growing importance beyond its traditional European heartlands, and promises to add a new, and dare I say glitzy, cultural and commercial dimension to the paddock!  Obviously both new teams will face early challenges, none more so than Cadillac, but their long-term potential is undeniable.

The driver market for 2026 is expected to be just as compelling as the technical changes. With new teams requiring line-ups and established outfits reassessing their futures under the new regulations, opportunities should arise for new drivers to step onto the Formula 1 stage. Highly rated rookies who’ve grown up gaming on X-box and PlayStation could adapt quickly to the new designs. They might find themselves promoted sooner than expected, while experienced drivers may be prized for their ability to guide teams through unfamiliar technical territory. 

At the same time, 2026 may mark the end of an era defined by two of the sport’s greatest names. There is growing belief that this season could be the last for both Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Alonso, still fiercely competitive well into his forties, has defied expectations with his longevity and racecraft. Hamilton, the most successful driver in Formula 1 history, and despite a slightly disappointing first year at Ferrari last season, continues to shape the sport both on and off the track. If 2026 does prove to be their final season, it will lend a powerful emotional undercurrent to the championship.

Alonso’s team, Aston Martin, with Adrian Newey at the helm as Team Principal, will benefit immensely from his direction. He is F1’s most successful designer and engineer, has been working on the 2026 car design for 18 months, and his expertise and experience will no doubt produce a very competitive racing car. One of the most closely watched storylines will be Red Bull’s new engine partnership with Ford. For the first time, Red Bull will run a power unit developed in-house by Red Bull Powertrains, with Ford providing technical support and branding. This represents a significant gamble for a team that has dominated much of the current era using the Honda engine. Whether Red Bull and Ford can immediately match the performance and reliability of established engine programs will be crucial to the competitive balance of the season.

Teams are currently testing in Barcelona, with two further sessions scheduled in Bahrain during February. The lights go out in Melbourne, Australia on March 8th.

Formula 1 Cellar Tracker- last tasting 2025

Chateau Max - Dutch second growth ripe right now. Despite occasional production problems in the vineyard, offers a stunning vintage combining acidity and sweetness, should last at least ten years- Drink now.

Chateau Lando - This British estate produced a lovely bottle in '25. Fine body and good all round drinking. Should last a while.

Chateau Oscar - Australian producer- Disappointing when last tasted- delicious grace notes at first, but irregular in depth and lacked finish. Will need to improve.

Chateau George - Another solid British performer, mostly fine on the palate, the Mercedes vineyard will be hoping the ’26 gives even better results than the '25 tasting.

Others to watch/taste in ’26: 

Chateau Kimi - Italian grower-young now, but shows good balance and lots of promise.

Chateau Isack - French/Algerian winery, exceptional performance notes and fine intensity from a new producer.