The Formula 1 driver market may close much of its rumors as early as this coming weekend. Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso are the names that could trigger a chain reaction during the Dutch GP weekend.
Read more F1: Pérez says he feels freedom with Cadillac project: «I’m enjoying it»
The expectation in Zandvoort is that Verstappen will clarify his future, although it is not yet confirmed that this will actually happen. The most likely scenario is that the Dutchman remains at Red Bull Racing for the 2027 season, something already considered expected within the team itself.
A possible confirmation from Verstappen would be important for the rest of the market. With one of the main seats defined, attention would turn to Alonso, who would have used the August break to evaluate whether he intends to compete for another season before ending his career. The two-time F1 champion will be questioned about the decision during his press commitments in Zandvoort.
If Alonso continues at Aston Martin, another coveted seat would no longer be available. Carlos Sainz was pointed out as a possibility to replace the Spaniard in case of retirement, but the driver has already confirmed that he will remain at Williams, while Audi keeps Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg.
Read more F1: Szafnauer reveals strategy used to avoid revealing secrets in documentary
After the Dutch GP, the main uncertainties would be concentrated in the smaller teams. Haas still needs to decide who will be Oliver Bearman’s teammate, with Esteban Ocon, Rafael Câmara, and Leonardo Fornaroli among the names being considered.
Alpine should make a definitive decision about Franco Colapinto in the coming weeks, while Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad appear as relatively secure names at Racing Bulls, despite the possibility of Nikola Tsolov advancing from Formula 2. At Cadillac, a possible change would involve Valtteri Bottas, but the absence of an obvious replacement makes the Finnish driver’s departure considered unlikely.
Read more F1: Lawson revives story of his debut by replacing Hadjar
