Even though the 2024 season is still ongoing and the 2025 season still has to start, multiple teams are already making statements about their newest cars. Especially Mercedes is happy about their current developments for the 2026 season!
In 2026 the regulations about the Formula One cars will change drastically. These changes happen every couple of seasons and have a big impact on the cars. Each year the teams improve the design of the previous cars to get them as close to perfection as possible. But whenever these changes get introduced, teams have to start from scratch. The interpretation of the rules will be the determining factor in the development of the cars. Understanding these and creating something that is as close to the edge of the rules as possible is the key to success! However, these new designs will be the first iterations of the cars. This means that teams will have to figure out if their interpretation will also benefit them in real life!
Why are they so excited for the next season?
In preparation for the 2026 season, Mercedes has started working on the engine. These engines are supplied to multiple teams, who then design their cars around the engine in a unique way. The team has been sharing some vague information about their progress in developing the engine, saying that they are way ahead of expectations.
In one of the interviews, it was said that the vibe on the work floor feels like it did back in 2014! This was the year when the turbo hybrid engines were introduced and Mercedes developed one of the most dominant F1 cars of all time!
Having the same feeling in the workplace would be a good indication of the confidence of the team. This could be big for Mercedes F1 and possibly mean great success when the new regulations get introduced in 2026!
Did Lewis Hamilton Make a Mistake When Leaving Mercedes?
If the feelings represent the quality of the engine Mercedes is building, it could mean a second win streak for Mercedes drivers. The last time this happened was in 2014 and Lewis Hamilton won multiple world champion titles because of it. However, earlier this year Lewis announced that from 2025 onwards, he would be racing for Ferrari F1. Ferrari is currently in a good position, but the new regulations might throw a curveball at them!
It would be possible that Mercedes will become the next dominant team again. This means that Lewis Hamilton’s chances of winning his 8th world championship might be completely over. However, this is still speculation since no one has made the actual car. The regulations for the 2026 season can still change which could have an effect on the cars.
