The Ringer F1 Show The 2026 F1 Driver Points Draft
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Feb 25, 2026 Chris Medland, F1 journalist and broadcaster, brings sharp analysis. Nate Saunders, F1 journalist and commentator, adds team and driver insights. They run a driver points draft, debating strategy and surprise picks. Short takes on top names, risky rookie flyers, midfield gambles, and who could bounce back under new regs.
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Draft Turns Preseason Hype Into Trackable Bets
- The draft frames preseason assumptions by turning driver selection into a points-focused strategy.
- Megan explains the snake draft: five-driver teams, two left out, and the winner is whoever scores the most driver points all season.
Red Bull Still Relies On Verstappen For Points
- Chris argues top teams look closer this year and Max Verstappen will still shoulder most of Red Bull's points.
- He notes Red Bull's engine work was surprisingly strong early in testing before teams suggested they 'turned it down.'
Mercedes Mood And Pace Matter More Than Hype
- Megan buys Mercedes momentum and picks George Russell, skeptical of total dominance but expecting strong race pace.
- Discussion highlights mixed testing signals and Mercedes' improved morale after difficult recent seasons.
