Alex Palou to drive in F1 for 2026? Maybe not

Is Spanish driver Alex Palou really considering leaving IndyCar for Formula 1? I’m not so sure.

According to recent rumors, Red Bull Racing is reportedly interested in Spanish driver Alex Palou. Potential teammate for Max Verstappen in the 2026 Formula 1 season? Such a move could mark a significant shift in the team’s lineup, with Palou possibly replacing Yuki Tsunoda. This would once again highlight Red Bull’s well-known tendency to make sudden driver changes.

Over the past decade (from 2015 to 2025), Red Bull Racing has frequently reshuffled its driver lineup, often due to inconsistent performances or in an effort to promote young talents from its junior program. Since 2015, the team has gone through no fewer than eight different second drivers. Only Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen securing long-term seats. This high turnover rate has drawn widespread criticism over the years.

• Daniel Ricciardo (2014–2018)
• Daniil Kvyat (2015–2016)
• Max Verstappen (2016-)
• Pierre Gasly (2019)
• Alexander Albon (2019–2020)
• Sergio Pérez (2021–2024)
• Liam Lawson (start of 2025)
• Yuki Tsunoda ( 2025)
• Some of these changes even took place mid-season, such as when Pierre Gasly was replaced by Alex Albon in 2019, and Albon himself was later replaced by Sergio Pérez in 2021. In 2025, after a difficult start, Liam Lawson was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after just four races.

This strategy reflects Red Bull’s aggressive approach to driver management, aimed at maximizing performance and promoting emerging talent from its junior program.

Who is Alex Palou?

He is one of the most talented drivers in modern motorsport, although his name is still not as well known in Europe as it arguably should be. Born in 1997 in Sant Antoni de Vilamajor, near Barcelona, Palou has followed a rather unconventional path compared to many of his European peers. After competing in the junior formulas across Europe, he chose to move to the United States to pursue a career in IndyCar — one of the most competitive racing series in the world.

Formula 1 Experience

Palou has already had some contact with Formula 1: in 2022, he took part in testing with McLaren and made his debut in a free practice session at the United States Grand Prix. In 2023, he was appointed as a reserve driver for McLaren, but the collaboration ended earlier than expected.

Despite his success in the United States, Palou has stated that there are only a few Formula 1 teams he would consider leaving IndyCar for. However, an offer from a top-tier team like Red Bull could represent a unique opportunity. As of now, there has been no official confirmation from either Red Bull or Palou’s management.

Reasons to Stay in IndyCar

Palou’s skepticism about moving to Formula 1 likely stems from his strong standing in the American series. Racing with a top team like Ganassi he has a real chance to fight for wins and championships. In F1, even if he managed to secure a seat, he could end up in a less competitive team. Orstuck in a secondary role, with no guarantee of truly making his mark.

Formula 1 is far more politicized, with complex contracts and decisions often influenced by sponsor factors that could restrict his potential and development. Staying in IndyCar allows Palou to perform at his best. Build a stable and successful career, and pursue ambitious goals, all while avoiding the bureaucracy that so often defines European racing series.

Red Bull Racing website https://www.redbullracing.com/int-en