As the 2026 F1 season enters its second half, the driver standings have undergone a significant transformation. The initial mid-season reset, implemented by the FIA to promote more competitive racing, has led to a shake-up in the points table. On 26.07.2026, the top three drivers in the standings are Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Charles Leclerc, respectively.
Hamilton’s impressive performances in the recent rounds have catapulted him to the top spot, with a 20-point lead over Verstappen. The Dutch driver, who had been the dominant force in the early stages of the season, has struggled to find consistency in recent weeks. Leclerc, meanwhile, has been quietly building momentum, with his Ferrari team showing signs of improvement. The Monegasque driver is just 10 points behind Verstappen and is poised to make a strong push for the championship.
The mid-season reset has also sparked a heated debate among fans and pundits, with some arguing that it has led to more exciting racing, while others believe it has disrupted the natural order of the season. As the championship enters its final stretch, it remains to be seen whether Hamilton can maintain his lead or if one of his rivals will mount a challenge.