“A New Era Begins”: this is how Mercedes has officially presented its 2026 Formula 1 season, introducing the W17, the all-new power unit, a new sustainable fuel, and the arrival of active aerodynamics.
The curtain has risen on Mercedes’ 2026 campaign, a true year zero for Formula 1, with the Silver Arrows ready to redefine the future. “2026 represents a decisive moment for our team and for the sport,” said Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal and CEO, during the digital launch event that marked the beginning of the team’s new era.
The Austrian manager then went into greater detail about the scale of the challenge awaiting the Brackley-based squad: “Next season will be shaped by some of the most demanding technical regulatory changes we have ever faced. These rules will test every aspect of our organisation, while also creating huge opportunities to innovate and set new performance benchmarks. We are approaching this new era with clear ambition, focused execution, and an uncompromising commitment to delivering results.”
Mercedes W17, a technical revolution with active aerodynamics and a new power unit
Following Toto Wolff’s comments, attention shifted to the new Mercedes W17, which has already successfully completed its Barcelona shakedown, covering a significant number of kilometres. The car has been developed in line with the completely revised 2026 regulations, which mandate a wheelbase shortened by 200 mm, a width reduced by 100 mm, and an overall weight approximately 30 kg lighter than previous generations.
The new cars will feature active aerodynamics, with movable front and rear wings designed to manage aerodynamic drag more effectively. The traditional DRS system disappears, making way for new Boost and Overtake modes, engineered to increase electrical energy deployment and enhance overtaking opportunities and on-track spectacle.
At the heart of the car sits the new hybrid power unit, defined by an equal split of power between the internal combustion engine and the electric component. The energy recovery system has been extensively reworked, with the MGU-H removed and the MGU-K significantly upgraded to deliver up to 350 kW. Mercedes will also run advanced sustainable fuels, developed in partnership with PETRONAS, with the aim of reducing carbon impact while maximising efficiency.
The drivers’ words
The debut of the W17 at Barcelona and Silverstone allowed George Russell and Kimi Antonelli to experience the potential of the new technical philosophy for the first time. Russell opened his comments at the event by saying: “I’m excited to start the season. The power unit is the result of years of development and, after months in the simulator, finally driving it at Silverstone and Barcelona was incredible. The engine is extremely fast, and when you press the overtake button you really feel the brutal delivery of all 350 kW.”
For Kimi Antonelli, the 2026 season will represent an important test of maturity: “Last year was a great learning experience. This year will be a huge opportunity for everyone with all the new elements. I feel more prepared for 2026.”
The young Italian talent also highlighted the dynamic qualities of the new car compared to previous generations: “Driving the W17 is a different experience, in a positive sense. You can clearly feel that the car is lighter and more agile. You can tell it’s fast, especially with the active aerodynamics. The front wing isn’t as strong as the rear one, but you still feel the difference on the straights.” He then concluded by looking ahead to the upcoming tests: “I really enjoyed driving the car and I can’t wait to get back on track in Bahrain.”
After the Mercedes W17’s debut in Barcelona, the new era of Formula 1 in 2026 is now fully underway. The initial feedback from George Russell and Kimi Antonelli points to a solid project, but the Bahrain tests are expected to be a game of shadows. Many, if not all, teams are likely to hold something back, with the true competitive order only becoming clear when the lights go out for the first green light of the season in Australia.
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