When does 2026 F1 season start? Full schedule, calendar, driver line-up and rule changes
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Lando Norris won his first F1 drivers’ title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on 7 December 2025, finishing third in the race, while Max Verstappen claimed victory. Norris became the first McLaren driver to win the championship since Lewis Hamilton in 2008, concluding a dramatic season filled with intense competition.
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Lando Norris won his first formula 1 title after a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 season at the Yas Marina Circuit on Sunday, 7 December. While Max Verstappen claimed victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the four-time champion finished second in the end-of-season standings, allowing Norris to secure his maiden F1 drivers’ title by achieving a third-place finish.
The 26-year-old becomes the 11th British driver to win the F1 drivers’ title and the first for McLaren since Sir Lewis Hamilton’s first triumph in 2008. Norris will now focus on defending his title as the 2026 season approaches, which begins in just under three months.
Norris Movements After Winning the Title
Lando Norris took time to celebrate his championship victory before turning his attention to preparations for the upcoming season. His win was a significant event in his career and McLaren’s history, as the team looks to build on this success.
Upcoming 2026 F1 Season Details
The 2026 F1 season is set to commence on 6 March with the Australian Grand Prix, a traditional race in Melbourne. Teams will participate in three pre-season tests, including one in Barcelona and two in Bahrain. The season’s schedule will maintain 24 races, with the Imola Grand Prix being replaced by the Madrid Grand Prix.
Changes to Teams and Drivers for 2026
Cadillac will join the grid as the eleventh team, while Sauber will be renamed Audi following a 2024 takeover. Confirmed driver line-ups show notable changes, including Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas driving for Cadillac, and Isack Hadjar partnering with Max Verstappen at Red Bull.
The confirmed team and driver line-up for the new season includes McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, and Mercedes’ George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, among others.
The season will also bring sweeping regulations, with cars being lighter and smaller, and a new power unit setup. These changes aim to enhance overtaking opportunities during races, confirmed by the FIA.