2027 F1 Driver Market: Possible Last-Minute Shake-Up
With Racing Bulls set for 2027, Haas and Cadillac still face decisions. Oliver Bearman looks likely to stay put, while Cadillac debates whether to debut Colton Herta or retain Valtteri Bottas.
The 2027 F1 driver market might not be fully settled yet, despite Racing Bulls confirming their lineup remains unchanged for next season. The focus now turns to Haas and Cadillac, where some intriguing decisions are yet to be finalized.
For Haas, the situation revolves around Oliver Bearman. The British driver, currently in his second full season with the team, has shown significant improvement, climbing to 13th in the driver's standings with 23 points. His knack for impressive overtakes and improved qualifying performance has made him a valuable asset for Haas. While both Bearman and Haas are keen to continue their partnership, the finer points of his contract still need ironing out. It's a bit of a conundrum for Bearman, who dreams of moving up to Ferrari someday—a prospect that seems distant with Lewis Hamilton still performing at his peak. Nevertheless, staying with Haas offers Bearman the chance to help the team achieve its first-ever podium, an opportunity not easily dismissed.
Meanwhile, Cadillac faces a different kind of puzzle. Sergio Perez has secured his place with the team until at least the end of 2029, but Valtteri Bottas's future is less certain. Despite his impressive record as a 10-time Grand Prix winner, the Finnish driver might find himself replaced by American reserve driver, Colton Herta. Herta may not have shone in Formula 2, currently sitting 19th in the standings, but he's demonstrated promise during FP1 sessions with Cadillac. Having just secured his Super Licence, Herta represents a potential American presence on the grid, something Cadillac is keen on for the right reasons.
The decision for Cadillac boils down to whether to give Herta his F1 debut or stick with the experienced Bottas. While Haas seems set to re-sign Bearman, and Cadillac's decision will likely come down to Bottas or Herta, the grid looks increasingly congested for other drivers.
Esteban Ocon, for instance, finds himself in a challenging position. With Haas and Cadillac filling their seats, Ocon, who parted ways with Haas earlier this month, lacks an immediate spot for next season. Despite a career that includes a Grand Prix victory and multiple podiums over 198 starts, Ocon's future in F1 may start with a reserve role. Yet, given his experience and drive, it’s likely he’ll find opportunities to return to the grid.
As the 2027 season approaches, the driver market is poised for potentially one last twist. Bearman's situation at Haas seems stable, but the real suspense lies with Cadillac's decision between Bottas and Herta. Whatever the outcome, the final pieces of the 2027 puzzle are soon to fall into place.