The German team, who sit at the top of the Constructors’ standings on 98 points after two consecutive one-two victories to start 2026, have become the third team to unveil a Japanese GP livery after Racing Bulls and Haas.

On Saturday, Racing Bulls unveiled a striking livery designed in collaboration with Japanese calligrapher Bisen Aoyagi - featuring the team’s classic colours, but reworked into a bold white, red, and silver palette to celebrate Japanese car culture.

On Tuesday morning, Haas, who have been partners with Toyota Gazoo Racing since 2024, shared a Godzilla-inspired livery design for this weekend’s race, celebrating the signing of a season-long collaboration with Japanese entertainment company Toho Co., Ltd.

And now it is Mercedes’ turn to reveal their Japanese GP livery. Under the caption “unleashing the beast,” the Constructors’ leaders have shared renders of the W17 they hope will secure a third straight win in 2026.

George Russell leads the Drivers’ standings on 51 points after the opening two rounds, but right behind him on 47 is teammate Kimi Antonelli, who secured his maiden F1 win in China in the last race.

While Russell is tipped to be the favourite to win the 2026 title, former F1 driver Damon Hill believes it may not be enough to guarantee his future with the Silver Arrows.

Last season, despite stellar performances, Mercedes took their time to confirm the Briton for 2026, and Hill has spoken from his own experience to highlight why Russell’s long-term future may still be in doubt.

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