Mercedes announces shifted focus in the run-up to '26

13:31, 23 Jul

byLudo van Denderen

Just like for every team in Formula 1, the moment is getting closer when the focus will completely shift to the 2026 season - the year with completely new technical regulations. Mercedes also has in mind when that shift will be, as CEO and team boss Toto Wolff reveals.

Mercedes was the strongest at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit a year ago, something the team wants to repeat.

"The next two Grands Prix provide an opportunity to head into the summer break with momentum. In the first 12 races of the season, we have been at front of the field on several occasions. At others, we have struggled.

"We have focused our energies on improving this delta, working hard to ensure we can be competitive at all events," says Wolff.

George Russell driving the W16 at the Austrian Grand Prix

Mercedes is already thinking about 2026

Mercedes is consciously thinking about 2026

Mercedes wants, just like the competitors, to achieve good results for the rest of the season, without endangering the development of the '26 car. Looking ahead to the Belgian Grand Prix, Wolff discusses that dilemma.

"Post shutdown, our attention will inevitably turn further towards 2026 though. These next two races are therefore important in ensuring we get the W16 into as good a place as possible across varying tracks and conditions."

"Spa and the Hungaroring are useful venues for helping us continue that work."

"They are different in character; Spa with its elevation changes, high-speed corners, and changeable weather contrasts with the tight, twisty circuit layout of Budapest that often sees some of the highest track temperatures of the year."

Wolff concludes with: "We will aim to make good steps with the car whilst optimising each weekend and fighting for strong results."