Ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Sky Sports F1 pundit Anthony Davidson ranks his six favourite driver pairings for 2026, listing teams in the order they finished last year.
McLaren — Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
This pairing is one of the strongest on the grid. Norris and Piastri pushed one another all the way in 2025, producing a close title fight and showing very similar performance levels. Their ability to extract everything from the car and to work together helped McLaren secure the Constructors’ title early. Davidson is keen to see what this momentum can deliver in 2026.
Mercedes — George Russell and Kimi Antonelli
Antonelli emerged as one of last season’s standout rookies: raw talent, high energy and fast to adapt. Russell brings experience, consistency and racecraft — particularly in qualifying, tyre management and race strategy. Davidson thinks the mix of youthful enthusiasm and seasoned professionalism should make Mercedes competitive this year.
Red Bull — Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar
Verstappen remains, in Davidson’s view, the benchmark driver on the grid, continuing to improve despite occasional frustrations. Hadjar impressed as a rookie, and his move to Red Bull will be a test of how he handles intense pressure and huge expectations alongside a multiple world champion. Davidson is intrigued to see if Hadjar can thrive in that environment.
Ferrari — Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton
On paper this is a potent combination. Hamilton has had a challenging few seasons but the new car generation could better suit his driving style and offer a route back to the front. Leclerc remains an exceptional qualifier and race performer. If Ferrari produces a car both drivers can manage, Davidson expects the team to be a major force again.
Williams — Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz
Williams has undergone a remarkable transformation, moving from survival mode to genuine competitiveness. The arrival of Sainz has been hailed inside the paddock: his professionalism and commitment have already raised standards, pushing Albon and the team to aim higher. Davidson highlights how a single, high-quality signing can change a team’s trajectory.
Haas — Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon
Choosing sixth was tough because several line-ups impressed, but Davidson slots Haas in this spot. Ocon brings experience and the ability to perform under pressure, though he can be sensitive to a car that doesn’t suit him. Bearman showed real promise in his rookie year despite some mistakes, with a standout fourth place in Mexico. Their complementary traits give Haas potential if the car improves.
Australian Grand Prix weekend (Sky Sports F1 highlights)
Thursday March 5: Drivers’ Press Conference, Paddock Uncut, F3 and F2 practice sessions.
Friday March 6: Practice One and Practice Two, F3 and F2 qualifying, Team Bosses press conference.
Saturday March 7: F3 Sprint, Practice Three, F2 Sprint, Australian GP Qualifying.
Sunday March 8: F2 Feature Race, Australian Grand Prix build-up, the race itself, then reaction and highlights.
Catch every round of the 2026 Formula 1 season live on Sky Sports, starting with the Australian Grand Prix this weekend.