The Race’s 2027 F1 grid forecast: Verstappen out, Tsunoda returns, Tsolov steps

How might the Formula One grid look in 2027? According to The‑Race.com, the overall picture should remain stable, yet one omission would dominate every headline. The outlet suggests that Max Verstappen will not be on the grid, as he is expected to activate the clause allowing him to leave Red Bull if he is not first or second in the standings by mid‑season.

With long‑term contracts locking up seats at Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren, a sabbatical focused on endurance racing is viewed as his most realistic option. The publication also predicts that Franco Colapinto will drop off the entry list due to underperformance. Their absence opens two slots, one of which would be filled by a familiar name. The projected driver shuffle includes Alexander Albon moving to Alpine, Esteban Ocon joining Williams and Haas recruiting Yuki Tsunoda, while Red Bull turns to its academy by promoting Arvid Lindblad and handing Nikola Tsolov a Racing Bulls debut.