Everyone is talking about the Mercedes engine
Mercedes is widely regarded as the clear favorite in Formula 1, at least in terms of the architecture of the new 2026 engine, despite recent controversy over alleged irregularities in the compression ratio that could provide an extra 15 horsepower. While many point to the Stuttgart-based manufacturer as the power unit to beat in the next regulatory cycle, not all opinions are in agreement. Former driver Johnny Herbert recently revealed in an interview with JeffBet that he has heard whispers of some unexpected issues during the final stages of development, ahead of the engine’s on-track debut.
The rumors reported by Johnny Herbert
Herbert, who knows the paddock environment extremely well, having also served as an FIA steward for many years before concluding his experience at the end of the 2024 season, shared some intriguing insights on the alleged problems with the Mercedes engine. “I haven’t received any official news from any team yet, but I’ve heard reports of problems for Mercedes, at least when they tried to install the engine at the rear of the car and found it wouldn’t start. There are plenty of rumors claiming that Mercedes is in the best position for 2026, but it doesn’t seem to be the case,” Herbert explained.
This wouldn’t be the first time Mercedes has faced engine issues of this type. Back in 2023, for example, there were rumors about assembly difficulties and packaging challenges ahead of a shakedown at Silverstone. At the time, however, the issue did not cause significant delays in the development of the W14, since that power unit had been frozen for years and was no longer eligible for performance upgrades, unlike the new 2026 engine.
“In general,” Herbert added, “the factories are calm, and the teams are working hard to prepare as best they can. I’m sure there will be many small issues, which is completely normal when dealing with a new year, a new car, and new rules. There are many unknowns, and it’s always different when a car is tested in the factory compared to on the track.”
The Mercedes engine is expected to continue sparking discussion at least until the start of the new Formula 1 season, when the true competitive balance will finally become clear on track.
As the 2026 season draws closer, the narrative surrounding Mercedes is shifting from one of undisputed dominance to a more complex story of high-stakes engineering. If Johnny Herbert’s reports of “fire-up” failures are accurate, it suggests that Mercedes is pushing the envelope of their new power unit to the absolute limit, risking initial reliability for long-term performance gains. Whether these are merely “growing pains” or signs of a deeper fundamental flaw in the 2026 design will be the most anticipated revelation when the cars finally break their silence on track.
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