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Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has praised Red Bull for setting the early benchmark in Formula 1’s 2026 power unit performance. Despite questions over Mercedes’ interpretation of new regulations, Wolff says Red Bull’s start to the season is impressive.
Red Bull Impresses in Bahrain Testing
Mercedes had been considered the preseason favorite after testing in Barcelona, but Wolff highlighted Red Bull’s performance in Bahrain.
After parting ways with Honda at the end of 2025, Red Bull developed its own 2026 power unit, recruiting top engineers from Mercedes’ engine program. Wolff said:
“Well, I was hoping that they were worse than they are, because they’ve done a very good job. The car, the power unit are the benchmark at the moment, and then obviously you have Max in the car. That combination is strong.”
New F1 Regulations Focus on Electrical Power
The 2026 regulations emphasize the hybrid system’s electrical component, with batteries now able to harvest and deploy three times more power than last year. Efficient energy deployment is now crucial for lap times.
Wolff noted that Red Bull’s data from Bahrain testing showed superior energy deployment on straights, both over single laps and consecutive laps:
“On a single lap we’ve seen it before, but now we’ve seen it on 10 consecutive laps with the same kind of straight-line deployment. They’ve set the benchmark today.”
When asked if Mercedes could match Red Bull, Wolff responded: “Today, no.”
Engine Regulation Controversy
A major talking point during testing has been Mercedes’ interpretation of the new engine regulations. The V-6 engine’s compression ratio was reduced from 18:1 in 2025 to 16:1 in 2026 to encourage competition.
While the rules measure compression at ambient temperatures, Mercedes appears to achieve higher ratios when the engine is hot, raising concerns among rival teams. Wolff said:
“Lobbying from other engine manufacturers has massively ramped up… three meetings between FIA and power unit manufacturers have taken place, but nothing seems resolved.”
The FIA aims to clarify the rules before the season opener in Australia to prevent any legal disputes.
Mercedes Engines Power Four Teams
Mercedes engines supply four teams this year, including McLaren, Alpine, and Williams. Wolff hinted that if regulations are changed, teams must comply or adjustments will be required.
“If it becomes a regulation, you need to adhere to it. And if you can’t, the FIA will need to find a solution,” Wolff said.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 F1 Season
Red Bull’s power unit advantage and Max Verstappen’s driving make the team the early benchmark for F1 2026. Mercedes will need to adapt quickly under the new regulations to challenge their main rival.
Wolff concluded: “The wind can change suddenly… opinions change all the time. That happens in this sport constantly.”
