Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff is hesitant to predict whether Mercedes will enter the track as favorites next year. Many experts foresee a repeat of 2014, when the Silberpfeile proved to be dominant with the introduction of a new engine formula. In 2026, the powertrain will receive an update: the hybrid V6 will become even more reliant on electrification. However, Wolff emphasizes that for now, all one can do is speculate; in Formula 1, there are no guarantees.
In a recent episode of the Beyond the Grid podcast, Toto Wolff was asked about the new engine formula for 2026. How certain is he that Mercedes will be leading the pack again? “We are never certain,” he responded soberly. “Our glass is always half empty, never half full,” he added with a grin. According to Wolff, the challenge for Mercedes starts with the direct competition. “It starts with the enemy in our own house,” he explained. “McLaren was the best team with a Mercedes engine this year. So even if the engine proves to be superior next year – something we never dare to claim – we still have to beat Williams, McLaren, and Alpine,” he listed all his customer teams.
‘Let’s Not Get Carried Away by Rumors’
The team boss also pointed out the differences in development time and innovations between teams. “Some teams have had more time in the wind tunnel because they finished lower in the constructors’ championship,” Wolff explained. “Some may have introduced innovations that we overlooked. Therefore, you can’t take anything for granted, even if our Mercedes engine turns out to be the strongest.”
“Those rumor mills are always dangerous,” Wolff added. “A competitor at another team or another engine manufacturer might think: ‘We’ll grant you the favorite’s role, but know that we’re coming.’ That’s why we don’t get carried away by rumors,” he concluded. Moreover, Mercedes’ engine technicians will face new competitors next year. Red Bull is developing its own powertrain with automotive giant Ford, while the new Audi team is also coming up with its own power source.
