How good is Mercedes' 2026 engine? Sainz chose Williams because of it
Carlos Sainz in Singapore - Photo: Race Pictures
A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
Carlos Sainz has every bit of confidence in Mercedes' abilities to deliver a powerful engine in 2026, in fact it was "one of the main reasons" why he chose Williams.
It’s actually one of the main reasons I chose Williams for this new regulation change.- Carlos Sainz on his confidence about Mercedes' 2026 engine
In 2026 Formula One is implementing a set of revamped technical regulations which will see major changes in aerodynamics, chassis, with fuel and tyres also expected to be altered as well.
However, one of the most dramatic shifts will be seen in the power units, and this is an area in particular in which Mercedes have apparently excelled at going into next season.
During an interview with El Partidazo de COPE, Sainz spoke about the German team's engine. “Yes, I have a lot of confidence in the Mercedes engine.”
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“It’s actually one of the main reasons I chose Williams for this new regulation change. I knew we’d be running the Mercedes power unit, and everything I’ve heard about it has been positive, and still is,” added Sainz referring to the paddock buzz that tips Mercedes as the leading force in terms of the engine.
Mercedes' W16 and George Russell after winning the Singapore GP. Photo: RacePictures.
Power is crucial, of course, but it isn't everything, and with Mercedes supplying engines to two other teams apart from Williams, Alpine and McLaren, success is anything but guaranteed, Sainz knows.
Sainz continued: “But of course, we can’t forget that Mercedes will have the Mercedes engine, McLaren will have it, Alpine will have it, and so will Williams.”
“That’s already four teams, eight cars, with the same engine, and two of those teams, especially McLaren, are superior right now.
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“So, no matter how good the engine is, you still need to get everything right with the chassis," added Sainz before concluding with a wink at his former team Ferrari.
"And of course, Aston Martin with Honda will be competitive, and Ferrari will always be there. Ferrari are always in the fight.”
Carlos Sainz and Williams celebrate podium in Baku. Photo: RacePictures
Williams 'a team on the rise'
According to Sainz Williams is a team on the rise. Following the Spaniard's first ever podium which he said had been the sweetest of his F1 career so far, Sainz highlighted the Grove-based team's surge in performance and culture.
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However, last time out in Singapore, Sainz spoke about the team needing to improve still, to be able to maximise its chances across a race weekend.
The Spaniard didn't see only his team's area of opportunity, but he also sent a message to F1's production team about the broadcasts and how he felt were more focused on drivers' girlfriends and celebrities, causing them to miss key on track battles. Sainz' message has recently been answered to by F1 itself.
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