Mercedes reveals 2026 F1 challenger
Mercedes revealed its 2026 Formula 1 challenger ahead of the biggest technical shake-up in the sport’s history.
A driver lineup of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will be behind the wheel of the new W17 for the 2026 F1 season, which boasts a new livery transitioning from Mercedes silver to deep black. There is also a green line that flows through the car, a nod to title sponsors Petronas. The W17’s AMG-ness is specified with a rhombus signature at the top of the sidepods, while the iconic Mercedes three-pointed star pattern adorns the engine cover.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said: "Formula 1 will undergo significant change in 2026, and we are prepared for that transition.
"The new regulations demand innovation and absolute focus across every area of performance.
"Our work on the new car, and the long-term development of the power unit and advanced sustainable fuels, reflects that approach."
Mercedes will be hoping the new regulations spark a return to the heady heights of 2014 - 2021, where the Brackley-based team won eight consecutive constructors’ titles and seven drivers’ championships.
Silverstone track debut for the W17
The new car made its on-track debut at Silverstone on Thursday, with Russell and Antonelli completing a combined 67 laps around the British Grand Prix circuit.
Andrew Shovlin, Trackside Engineering Director, said: “We have had a sensible first day of running with the W17 at Silverstone. As with any shakedown, the focus is on ensuring everything operates safely and reliably. We were able to get through our allotted mileage, with both George and Kimi getting to experience the 2026 car on track for the first time. That is testament to the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth.”
Next, the team will head to Barcelona for three days of testing across the five-day event from January 26-30, before travelling to Bahrain for two lots of official testing on 11-13 and 18-20 February.
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Mercedes-AMG F1