Steiner named five contenders for the title in 2026.

Steiner named five contenders for the title in 2026.

      The Mercedes team confidently leads this Formula 1 season, having won four races in four Grands Prix. However, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes that in 2026, five drivers have a chance to win the title, but Max Verstappen is not among them.

      "Max is in no way a contender for the title, definitely not," Guenther Steiner shared his opinion on The Red Flags podcast. "I don't even want to explain why. He won't be the champion this year.

      I see five contenders. They are two Mercedes drivers, two McLaren drivers, and Charles Leclerc. Charles probably has the least chance, but both McLaren and Mercedes drivers will definitely compete.

      After what I've seen in the last races, especially in Miami, I consider Kimi Antonelli the favorite. Six weeks ago I had a different opinion, but I have the right to change it if I see the situation changing. I don't need to be stubborn.

      The Mercedes team will win the Constructors' Cup. I think that's self-explanatory."

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Steiner named five contenders for the title in 2026.

The Mercedes team confidently leads this Formula 1 season, having won four races in four Grands Prix. However, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes that in 2026, five drivers have a chance to win the title.