Despite these positive signs, some figures within Formula 1 are urging caution. Many believe it is still too early to draw definitive conclusions. As always, the first official pre-season tests will provide a more reliable indication of each team’s relative performance on track.
One of the most vocal skeptics is Helmut Marko, the long-time advisor and head of driver development at Red Bull Racing. Known for his direct and often provocative communication style, Helmut Marko has sought to temper expectations surrounding Mercedes. He expressed doubts about the hype surrounding the German team’s early advantage.
“Mercedes is self-proclaiming itself as the favourite for next year, but there is absolutely nothing to support that claim,” said Helmut Marko. “The development of the internal combustion engine is something incredible, even though in the end it is as small as a lawnmower’s. However, in my view, the two most decisive elements for 2026 will be the battery and the fuel.”
The Austrian advisor added that Red Bull Powertrains will start the new season using a rather standard battery configuration. Meanwhile, in terms of fuel technology, the Milton Keynes-based outfit is actively collaborating with its long-time fuel and lubricant partner, ExxonMobil — under the Mobil 1 brand — to optimise performance under the upcoming synthetic fuel regulations.
Helmut Marko’s comments serve as a reminder that while Mercedes may appear to be in a strong position on paper, there are still many unknowns. Factors such as battery deployment strategy and fuel composition are expected to play a major role in the performance balance of the 2026 cars — perhaps even more than raw combustion engine power.
Until the engines are fired up in early 2026 pre-season testing, any assumptions about who holds the advantage remain speculative. For now, Mercedes might enjoy the label of favourite — but as history has shown, such predictions are always best treated with caution in Formula 1.
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