Sporting News·August 23, 2026
F1 standings 2026: Driver and constructor points, results for Formula One season
Championship lead
Mercedes are still listed first in the 2026 constructors' championship across several recent standings updates, including one published on August 23. Their lead over Ferrari and McLaren remains substantial, which makes them the team to beat as the season enters its later stages.
Why it matters
The size of the gap matters because constructor points determine both prestige and prize money. A team with a healthy buffer can shift from pure race-to-race pressure toward managing risk, protecting reliability, and avoiding unnecessary losses.
What comes next
Ferrari and McLaren need a strong run of results to keep the title contest alive. Without a major swing in form or a costly Mercedes setback, the standings suggest Mercedes are trending toward another constructors' crown.