Five F1 drivers still without contracts for 2027

With the 2026 F1 season entering its final third, the 2027 grid is coming into focus — but not completely. Thirteen of 22 drivers are already signed through next year, and several others are expected to re-sign. That leaves five question marks: Hadjar, Lindblad, Lawson, Ocon and Alonso.

Why it matters:

The silly season hype that dominated early 2026 — fueled by Max Verstappen's uncertain Red Bull future — collapsed once he signed through 2030. With no major domino left, these five decisions will shape the driver market and tell us whether teams want stability or fresh talent.

By the numbers:

13 of 22 drivers are locked in for 2027. Nine are technically without contracts, but four — Hülkenberg, Bortoleto, Bearman and Stroll — are expected to stay. Only five seats are genuinely uncertain.

The details:

• Red Bull dilemma: Hadjar's strong rookie season, including a Monaco podium, makes him likely to stay alongside Verstappen. Lindblad has finished every race, never lower than 14th, with nine points finishes in 14 starts. Lawson, despite 49 GPs, is most vulnerable if Red Bull promotes Nikola Tsolov.
• Ocon's exit: Ocon has been out-paced by Bearman for most of 2026, and Haas is linked with Rafael Camara, Jack Doohan and Leonardo Fornaroli. This looks like the end.
• Alonso's call: At 45, Alonso still wants one last success, but Aston Martin is at the back. His hesitation is about FIA's 2027-28 rule changes, not commitment. He must decide soon so Aston can plan a replacement.

What's next:

Red Bull could keep its lineup intact for the first time in years if Tsolov develops for another season. Haas is expected to decide Ocon's replacement before season's end. Alonso's announcement will likely complete the puzzle — if he stays, Aston Martin avoids a late scramble.