Formula 1's class of 2026: A new era begins

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The wait is finally over. Formula 1 gathered its 22-man roster in Bahrain this Wednesday for the official "Class of 2026" portrait, marking the dawn of a transformative technical era. As engines fired up for the final three days of pre-season testing, the grid balance feels both fresh and familiar.

Standing out among the veterans is 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad, who holds the distinct honor of being the only true rookie on the 2026 grid. While the Racing Bulls newcomer prepares for his debut, the ageless Fernando Alonso remains at 44 the sport’s ultimate "senior citizen."

The picture also highlights the presence of veteran F1 returnees Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez who are back on the grid with Grand Prix racing’s eleventh entrant, Cadillac F1.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.