European F1 franchises lock in top drivers through 2028 as Cadillac enters grid
Major European motorsport franchises have secured their lead drivers on multi-year deals through 2028, stabilizing team valuations and brand partnerships ahead of the 2026 season and the arrival of new US-backed competitor Cadillac.
The Formula 1 grid for the 2026 season is largely finalized, with leading European racing syndicates securing their star drivers on long-term agreements. Reigning world champion Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are tied to McLaren until at least 2027 and 2028 respectively, while Charles Leclerc has committed to Ferrari through 2028.
These multi-year commitments provide crucial financial stability for the sport's major automotive backers. By locking in marquee names like Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari until at least 2027, and George Russell at Mercedes until 2027, teams can confidently negotiate long-term sponsorships and manage their valuation multiples.
Red Bull retains Max Verstappen on a long-term deal expiring in 2028, which was originally signed in March 2022. However, the team faces unique corporate governance risks, as Verstappen's contract contains performance clauses that could trigger an exit if the new 2026 cars fail to deliver competitive results.
The market is also absorbing a new American entrant, Cadillac, which has signed veterans Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas through 2027. Both drivers spent 2025 on the sidelines, and their multi-year contracts signal Cadillac’s strategy of using experienced talent to build immediate brand credibility in a European-dominated sport.
German manufacturer Audi is relying on Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for 2026 as it establishes its works team. Meanwhile, Alpine has secured Pierre Gasly until 2028, providing a stable foundation for the French marque as it navigates the midfield and attempts to maximize its commercial returns.
Not all seats are secure, creating volatility in the lower tier of the driver market. Williams drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, along with Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso, are only confirmed for the 2026 season, leaving their 2027 futures dependent on car performance and team investment. This uncertainty forces these mid-tier teams to weigh the financial risks of a disruptive driver change against the potential commercial upside of a more competitive lineup.
Teams are also heavily investing in youth development to control future payroll costs. Mercedes is developing Kimi Antonelli, Racing Bulls is fielding rookie Arvid Lindblad, and Haas is banking on Oliver Bearman, hoping early success will translate into long-term, cost-effective contracts before their market values surge.
