Karun Chandhok

Karun Chandhok predicts that Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes are favourites to win the 2026 drivers’ and constructors’ championships, although Mercedes’ reliability remains a vulnerability. McLaren’s upgrade programme and Red Bull’s attempts to overcome inconsistent performance are identified as key development stories. Fernando Alonso is expected to continue into 2027 only if Aston Martin and Honda can provide a competitive car. Aston Martin’s chassis and engine upgrades could help it reach Q3 occasionally, while Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and potentially Max Verstappen’s Red Bull could all win races during the remaining season. The returning Sepang race is expected to reward teams that manage tyre temperatures and energy deployment effectively.

Karun Chandhok predicts that Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes are the favorites to win the 2026 drivers' and constructors' championships, although Mercedes reliability problems and Ferrari's recent momentum could keep the title races open. McLaren is identified as a team to watch for development, while Red Bull must improve its inconsistent, relatively slow car to keep Max Verstappen competitive. Fernando Alonso's continuation into 2027 is expected to depend on Aston Martin and Honda demonstrating meaningful progress. Aston Martin's upgrades and forthcoming engine improvements could help it reach Q3 more regularly. Chandhok also expects multiple wins for Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and potentially Verstappen, with the returning Sepang race likely to reward teams that manage heat and tyre temperatures effectively.