Overview

• George Russell voiced strong confidence in Mercedes’ 2026 power unit but rejected the idea it will make the works team the automatic favorite.
• Paddock chatter suggests Mercedes’ Brixworth group may have the leading package, yet Russell stressed that reported engine gains do not guarantee on-track dominance.
• Any engine advantage would be shared across customers, with McLaren, Alpine and Williams set to run Mercedes power in 2026.
• Current form underlines his point, as McLaren has won all but four races this season and Williams has improved notably with the same engines.
• The 2026 rules bring a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power, sustainable fuels and the removal of the MGU-H, sharpening the focus on aero and tyre usage.