F1 reserve drivers are crucial for teams as they offer a Plan B option if something unexpected happens to the full-time drivers.
In addition, reserves also often contribute to the development of the car, including simulator work and carrying out some free practice outings.
Many drivers have received their grand prix debuts through unexpected substitute appearances - including current drivers Liam Lawson and Oliver Bearman.
Most of the teams have already confirmed their reserve drivers for the upcoming season, with only Audi missing from the list.
You can see the overview of reserve drivers below!
F1 2026 reserve drivers
| Team | Reserve driver(s) |
|---|---|
| McLaren | Leonardo Fornaroli & Pato O'Ward |
| Mercedes | Frederik Vesti |
| Red Bull | Yuki Tsunoda |
| Ferrari | Antonio Giovinazzi |
| Williams | Luke Browning |
| Racing Bulls | Yuki Tsunoda |
| Aston Martin | Jak Crawford |
| Haas | Jack Doohan & Ryo Hirakawa |
| Audi | TBC |
| Alpine | Paul Aron |
| Cadillac | Zhou Guanyu |
Red Bull & Racing Bulls reserve driver
From 2026, Yuki Tsunoda fulfills the role of reserve driver at Red Bull and Racing Bulls.
The Japanese driver was Max Verstappen's team-mate in 2025, but was dropped after a mediocre season.
Tsunoda must therefore make do with a role on the sidelines, with Isack Hadjar promoted in his place.
McLaren reserve drivers
McLaren has split the role of reserve driver this season between two names.
Reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli joined the Woking-based squad's development program, joining IndyCar's Pato O'Ward as a reserve to Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Mercedes reserve driver
Mercedes had to look for a new reserve driver following the departure of Valtteri Bottas to Cadillac.
The team settled on Frederik Vesti, who has long been a junior member of the team.
Ferrari reserve driver
Ferrari has been using the services of Antonio Giovinazzi for years when it comes to the reserve driver role.
The Italian competed in F1 for Alfa Romeo and is an important part of Ferrari's WEC project, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023.
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