Andretti names 2026 F1 favorites, expects 'usual suspects' to dominate

F1 legend Mario Andretti predicts the established top teams will continue to lead the pack in 2026, despite a major overhaul of the technical regulations. He identifies Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari as the favorites, suggesting their superior resources and expertise will keep them ahead, even as he leaves room for a potential surprise from the midfield.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents one of the most significant technical resets in recent F1 history, with new power unit and chassis rules designed to level the playing field. Andretti's expectation that the existing hierarchy will persist underscores the immense challenge smaller teams face in closing the structural gap, even with regulatory change. It sets realistic expectations for fans and highlights where the real battles for progress might occur.

The details:

• In an exclusive interview, Andretti stated the "usual suspects"—Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari—are his clear favorites for the 2026 season.
• He attributes their expected continued success to having "the best facilities and resources," which allows them to adapt most effectively to new rules.
• While acknowledging "anything can happen" and that surprises will emerge, his core prediction is that the teams performing at the top now "are the ones that are going to make the most noise, no question."
• Notably, Andretti did not name the new Andretti Cadillac team, on whose board he sits, as a potential surprise package for 2026, indicating a more measured and long-term outlook for the debutant squad.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to how ambitious midfield teams like Aston Martin and Alpine, with its new Mercedes power units, can leverage the new rules to disrupt the established order. Andretti's comments place the onus on these challengers to prove they can translate regulatory opportunity into on-track performance, while the top teams work to maintain their advantage. The 2026 pre-season will be the first true test of whether the new era delivers a shake-up or reinforces the existing status quo.