Formula 1’s 2027 driver market is beginning to take shape, with 12 of the 22 seats confirmed and the biggest uncertainty surrounding Fernando Alonso’s future at Aston Martin.
The top four teams will retain their current pairings, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri staying at McLaren, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari and Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar at Red Bull.
Alpine will continue with Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto, while Williams will retain Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz. Cadillac is also set to keep Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.
Audi is expected to continue with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, leaving the main unresolved seats at Aston Martin, Haas and Racing Bulls.
Alonso Holds The Key
Alonso remains the biggest name yet to decide his future. His Aston Martin contract expires at the end of the 2026 season and the two-time world champion has not confirmed whether he will continue racing.
A decision by the 45-year-old could have a wider impact on the driver market, particularly if his departure leaves Aston Martin searching for a replacement.
Lance Stroll’s position is also not formally confirmed, although his existing agreement has been described as covering 2025 “and beyond”.
Haas’ Ocon Is A Free Agent… For Now
Speaking ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Ocon said he is currently a free agent for 2027 and confirmed that he has been in talks with other teams, although discussions with Haas have not necessarily ended.
“At the moment, I’m definitely a free agent for next year,” the Haas driver said.
Ocon’s comments mean his current Haas deal does not secure him a seat for the 2027 season. However, Haas has yet to formally announce his departure or confirm a replacement.
The team is expected to make a decision on its 2027 line-up within the next few weeks, with Oliver Bearman widely expected to retain one of the seats.
Ferrari junior Rafael Câmara is among the drivers reportedly being considered for the other seat, while Leonardo Fornaroli, Ryō Hirakawa and Jack Doohan have also been linked with the vacancy.
Red Bull Still Has Choices
Racing Bulls is yet to confirm either Liam Lawson or Arvid Lindblad for 2027.
Lawson returned to Racing Bulls after losing his Red Bull seat, while Lindblad is establishing himself during his rookie campaign. Red Bull will have to decide whether to retain both drivers or make changes within its junior programme.
With most of the established teams already settled, Aston Martin, Haas and Racing Bulls are now at the centre of the remaining 2027 driver market.
Alonso’s decision could be particularly significant, as his future could open another seat and set off further changes across the grid.
