Mercedes driver backs Wolff on crucial 2026 regulation claim

The Mercedes driver highlighted how the ground-effect cars are a little tricky to drive. He explained that mastering these cars is physically demanding and technically complex, making it challenging to extract their full potential.

Antonelli further added that the 2026 cars will be great as it requires drivers to be easily adaptable and flexible.

“I think so. Ground-effect cars aren't easy to drive, especially at the beginning: it's hard to get the most out of them, they're physically demanding, very complex... so changing to something very different, as will be the case with the upcoming regulations, will be great because it will require everyone to be adaptable, hard-working, and flexible,” Antonelli said via Gazzetta dello Sport.

The words of the young Italian driver come off the back of comments from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who, in his assessment of the season, stated the upcoming regulation changes could favour drivers who excel in simulators, naming Max Verstappen and George Russell as favourites.

Earlier, Antonelli revealed his desire to have a competitive car as his sole wish for Christmas.

The 19-year-old stressed how he would fancy race victories in 2026, while also expressing his desire to challenge for a drivers’ championship.

Antonelli also expressed optimism about the 2026 Mercedes car, highlighting the key transformation of the car he has witnessed in the wind tunnel.

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