Mercedes downplay the chances that 2026 will be decided by engine power

Mercedes have often been named as "the" contender for the 2026 title and who are likely to produce the best engine for the new regulation cycle - just like the 2014 start of the turbo hybrid era with the "dual in the desert" between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg which is just 1 of many dominated races by the German manufacturer. 


However, other engine manufacturers are looking eager to set the standard for 2026 aswell like Aston Martin who are partnering with Honda for the year and on the other hand Ferrari are keen to make a statement aswell. Redbull Powertrains with Ford and Audi may fall behind at the start with both teams making unsure statements about their progress. Christian Horner explained before he was sacked that "it would be embarrassing if Redbull were ahead of Mercedes in engine performance." Reading between the line Redbull and Ford are not necessarily confident in their machine yet. 


Allison explains difference makers for 2026:

James Allison returned as Mercedes AMG technical director in 2023 and managed to undo some of the early issues with Mercedes' concept designs from 2022.

Allison explained that "The rather unfortunate formula of very high engine loads at the end of the straight will disappear and we will have much more moderate loads at the end of the straight, which will be beneficial for everyone. Of course you will have to master the new chassis and aerodynamics as best as you can... That is the number one factor."

Mercedes have prioritised the 2026 the most out of the front running teams unlike Ferrari for example who went into this year thinking that they could challenge Mclaren to the championship but that was short lived even 5 races in with Mclaren taking 4/5 wins and now at the summer break winning 11/14 races.

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