Antonelli: Mercedes 'all eyes' on long-awaited Malaysia upgrades

Kimi Antonelli says Mercedes is pinning its hopes on a long-awaited upgrade package set to arrive at the Malaysian Grand Prix, as the team looks to close the gap to the frontrunners in a challenging 2026 season.

Why it matters:

Mercedes has struggled to match the pace of the leading teams in the opening races. With new regulations shaking up the competitive order, every development step is crucial. This upgrade represents Mercedes' first major aerodynamic overhaul of the season, and its success could determine whether the Silver Arrows can re-enter the title fight or slip further behind.

The details:

• Antonelli confirmed the team is "all eyes" on the upgrade, describing it as a significant step forward in the car's development.
• The package is expected to focus on improved downforce and balance, addressing weaknesses that have held Mercedes back in the early rounds.
• Team effort: Months of wind tunnel work at Brackley have gone into these components, with the team pushing to bring them to the track as early as possible.
• Track characteristics: Sepang's high-speed corners and long straights will provide a stern test for the new parts, offering valuable data for the team's development direction.
• Antonelli, a standout performer in his second season with the team, remains optimistic the updates will help Mercedes take a step forward.

What's next:

The Malaysian Grand Prix will serve as a crucial benchmark for Mercedes. If the upgrades deliver the expected performance gains, it could reignite the team's season. If not, the Silver Arrows may need to shift focus to 2027 development earlier than planned.