The 2026 season has had lots of ups and downs for most teams on the Formula 1 grid. Mercedes have held their place at the top from the start, Alpine have made massive strides after switching to a Mercedes engine, Cadillac have found their footing, and Ferrari continue to be the Ferrari we have known for many seasons.
All eyes have been on Kimi Antonelli, George Russell, and Mercedes ever since preseason testing, and it has been the young Italian who has made a statement about his abilities after doubts emerged in 2025. His Monza win has essentially closed the outside chance of a competitor in the world championship battle, barring unforeseen circumstances.
Down the pecking order, there are a few battles in particular to keep a close eye on as we enter the final stage of the 2026 season. The bulk of the action can be expected to come from the bottom seven teams on the grid.
Alpine vs. Racing Bulls
Both teams have done exceptionally well this season. Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad have been consistent with points finishes for Racing Bulls. As for Alpine, switching from Renault to Mercedes engines has been a blessing. They went from struggling to score a point to earning multiple points finishes and even a pole position for Pierre Gasly in Monza.
With the Red Bull sister team still ahead in the constructor standings by 13 points, Alpine’s improvement upon conclusion of the summer break has put them in a position to challenge Racing Bulls heading into the final stage of the season.
Sainz vs. Albon
After a tremendous 2025 season from Williams, 2026 has been nothing but a disappointment from the very beginning. Both Carlos Sainz Jr. and Alex Albon have expressed their frustrations with the car, yet they have still underperformed.
Considering Sainz’s impressive 2025 season and the rumors surrounding a potential departure, there is pressure for the Spanish driver to comfortably clear his teammate in the standings.
Haas vs. Audi
Both Haas and Audi are in the second tier of the midfield this season, behind Alpine and Racing Bulls. Oliver Bearman has carried Haas on his back, while both Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto have scored a handful of points finishes.
Only five points separate the two teams, and it could come down to the wire in Abu Dhabi. In the meantime, every single point will matter going forward in the fight for P7.
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