Mercedes-AMG F1 reveals first look at W17 as 2026 era begins

The reveal marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, as the sport prepares for one of the most transformative regulation changes in its history. All-new chassis rules, a completely redesigned power unit, revised aerodynamic regulations and advanced sustainable fuels developed will define the next generation of Formula One.

On 22 January, the team will publish the first official renders of the W17 across its social media platforms, with images made available via the team’s media site. It is the first public step in Mercedes’ 2026 preparations, offering a glimpse of the direction taken for the new technical era.

Momentum then builds quickly. Just days later, the team heads to Barcelona for the first of three pre-season tests, running from 26–30 January. The test will provide the W17 with its first on-track mileage as engineers and drivers begin unlocking performance from the radically new package.

The countdown continues with a digital season launch event on Monday 2 February. Fans and media around the world will be able to watch the event online, featuring CEO and Team Principal Toto Wolff, race drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, and senior technical figures from the team. 

The show will include in-depth insight into the sweeping regulation changes and a closer look at the innovative sustainable fuel developed in partnership with Petronas.

Wolff recently discussed his role leading the team as it heads into the new generation of regulations where the team has been tipped to have the strongest engine and chassis package.

Mercedes and Red Bull could reportedly gain around 0.4 seconds per lap on their rivals by using a cylinder compression trick. The power unit has already been homologated, meaning the FIA has deemed it compliant with the regulations.

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes. 

Follow us on Spotify as well!