Formula 1 2026: The surprises, talking points and battles shaping the season

Formula 1 returns for the second half of the 2026 season, with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort serving as the opening race of that stretch. Key storylines heading into the second half include midseason team changes such as Cadillac appointing a new boss, and driver dynamics including tensions around Verstappen, Norris, and Piastri. Midterm grades have been published by ESPN, with rookie Antonelli earning an A+ and Lewis Hamilton receiving an A- in his first season with Ferrari.