Toto Wolff labels Red Bull the “fastest car” while questioning FIA engine investigation. During F1 testing in Bahrain, Toto Wolff comments on Mercedes’ performance.

F1 testing in Bahrain | Wolff takes aim at FIA and admits one team is faster than everyone

Toto Wolff was interviewed during Formula 1 testing in Bahrain, where he shared his view on the current competitive order, named the team he believes is leading the field, and addressed the ongoing engine case that has put Mercedes under the spotlight.

The Mercedes Team Principal spoke to Sky Sport Italia on the opening day of pre-season testing at the Sakhir circuit. Mercedes is naturally at the center of attention due to the engine controversy, but Wolff chose to focus primarily on what his team has gathered so far in terms of data and performance, while also offering his opinion on rival teams.

Wolff began by reflecting on the three days in Barcelona and the first morning of running in Bahrain. “In Barcelona it was actually a shakedown. Nothing more, nothing less. But it went very well,” he said. He then continued the interview by discussing how Mercedes’ morning session unfolded on this first day of F1 testing in Bahrain, highlighting the work carried out by the team as they continue to understand their 2026 package.

Wolff’s surprise prediction

The Mercedes Team Principal also spoke about the team he considers to be the favorite this season. “In Barcelona we didn’t see Max and Red Bull doing fast laps. We saw it today, so it’s totally different. For us, Red Bull is the fastest car, the most complete engine.”

However, Toto Wolff did not mention only Red Bull. “McLaren is also fast, that’s why everything starts today for the season, not in Barcelona.” His comments suggest that the true competitive picture is only beginning to emerge now that teams are pushing more in Bahrain compared to the limited and controlled running seen at the Spanish shakedown.

Wolff also admitted that Mercedes appears to be trailing at this stage of testing. “We don’t feel ready because we see that today, with the car, the balance, the setup, the tyre degradation and the energy management with the engine, it’s not satisfactory at all.” The Austrian acknowledged that there is still significant work to do in terms of optimizing the car’s balance and managing tyre wear and hybrid systems.

As expected, Toto Wolff also addressed the engine case, taking a subtle swipe at the FIA and the situation currently unfolding in the paddock. “We have done engine development, it’s something that takes a long time. That’s why it’s a bit surprising that things can change so quickly. But that’s how Formula 1 works. It’s the teams and the other engine manufacturers who think we have a big advantage because of the things we have done. There are many things being discussed. It’s always like that.”

With pre-season testing still in its early stages, Wolff’s comments underline both Mercedes’ current challenges and the tense atmosphere surrounding the power unit debate. As the Bahrain sessions continue, more clarity is expected to emerge regarding both performance levels and the broader political discussions shaping the 2026 Formula 1 season.

This first day in Bahrain has provided a sobering reality check for Mercedes, highlighting that while their development path was long, the ever-changing landscape of F1 regulations and rival scrutiny can shift the competitive order in an instant.