Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff is hoping to compete against Ferrari in 2026. The upcoming Formula 1 season marks a new era in which the sport will transition to advanced, new hybrid engines. Reportedly, Mercedes – which got off to a flying start with the introduction of hybrid technology in 2014 – is once again in a strong position for a competitive package. Wolff is already dreaming of a ‘classic’ title fight with the Scuderia.
In 2026, the technical regulations will be overhauled again. The cars are to become smaller and more agile, while engine power will be evenly distributed between a combustion engine and a battery. The promise of increased electrification has already attracted several automotive giants to the sport. For instance, Ford will be partnering with Red Bull next year, and Sauber will receive support from Audi. Although many drivers remain skeptical about the latest engine developments, Mercedes is said to have a promising package in the pipeline.
“All these are rumors, we know absolutely nothing,” Toto Wolff tempered expectations in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. “I expect Ferrari to be very competitive, and Honda has already shown how strong they are – I expect a lot from them with Aston Martin,” said Wolff. The Japanese have signed an exclusive engine contract with the British team for 2026. “And then there’s Red Bull with their new power source, and of course Audi. Everyone wants to be ready and competitive, so we’ll see who has done the best job.”
Battle Between the Italians
The last time the engine regulations were revised, Mercedes dominated the field. From 2014, the German manufacturer ruled Formula 1 for eight years. If history repeats itself, Wolff is particularly hoping for strong competition from Ferrari. “Ferrari versus Mercedes would be fantastic,” said Wolff. “A classic! Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc against Antonelli and George Russell – what an incredible challenge.”
“An Italian driver against an Italian car, can you imagine that?”, he grinned. With 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes has an Italian top talent in their ranks. “I have no doubt that this duel will happen – next year or in the future,” concluded the Austrian optimistically. “We will see, and it will be fantastic.”
