More scrutiny to follow Mercedes
It seems slightly ridiculous to suggest that Mercedes could still be ‘sandbagging’ after the season begins. After all, with the 2026 campaign now underway, the Silver Arrows do not need to hide their performance. At least, this is the surface-level interpretation of events.
A more in-depth analysis would suggest that Toto Wolff’s team could still plausibly be keeping something in reserve. This is not to say Mercedes are winning with one arm tied behind their pack – but perhaps there is still some margin to tap into.
Simply put, it is to their benefit to win by the smallest margins possible.
The bigger their advantage over other engine manufacturers, the more mid-season upgrades they are allowed to introduce. This is based on the ADUO system (Additional Development Upgrade Opportunities) for these 2026 regulations.
In short, engine performance is measured between rounds 1-6, 7-13 and 14-24. Engine manufacturers with a bigger deficit will be given more budget allocation and opportunities to develop.
As a result, it makes logical sense for Mercedes not to push the absolute limits – assuming they have some performance in hand. To be clear, there is no guarantee the W18 is fast enough to win without operating at its upper limit.
Ferrari’s performance on Sunday suggests the Silver Arrows will have at least some competition. Still, even as Russell and Mercedes suggest Ferrari could join them in an entertaining battle at the front, observers will be closely monitor to what extent the German manufacturer’s advantage is at genuine risk.
Should Ferrari or Red Bull snatch a race victory in the early rounds, then this more cynical hypothesis can be rubbished. However, it cannot be denied that some drivers speculate Mercedes could yet unleash more horsepower at their disposal if necessary.
