F1 prepares for 2026: Mercedes and Williams drivers have been in simulators for months. The 2026 Formula 1 season has effectively begun.

The 2026 Formula 1 season has, in many ways, already begun. Several drivers have been spending months in simulator sessions to prepare for the upcoming technical revolution that will completely reshape the sport. Just like in 2022, Formula 1 is on the verge of another seismic transformation — not only in terms of aerodynamics, but also regarding the power unit, marking the start of an entirely new era for the championship.

First hints about 2026

Teams are starting from a completely blank sheet of paper. The advantage McLaren has built during the current phase of the ground-effect era could vanish overnight. As always happens with major regulation changes, the team that has focused most intensely on developing its new car — even if that means sacrificing part of the ongoing season — could begin 2026 with a decisive early advantage.

According to several reports circulating in the paddock over recent months, the most feared power unit could once again come from Mercedes. Engineers in Brackley have reportedly developed an exceptional new engine, one that could allow the Silver Arrows to return to dominance in the coming years. As for the other manufacturers, there is still plenty of uncertainty. Some insiders have expressed doubts, while others prefer to remain silent.

The season has begun: drivers already in the simulator

In a sense, the 2026 season is already underway. As reported by Auto Motor und Sport, several drivers have already started working in simulators to prepare for next year’s challenges. Among the teams, Mercedes and Williams appear to be the most advanced in this process, with both reportedly having begun simulator work more than six months ago. Audi, meanwhile, joined the effort at the beginning of September.

This simulator work is crucial not only for the drivers — allowing them to develop a feel for the new cars and understand their behavior — but also for the engineers, who can collect and analyze valuable data that will shape the design and performance of the next generation of Formula 1 machinery.