Brundle: Mercedes' relentless shakedown pace and reliability can't be ignored

Sky Sports F1 analyst Martin Brundle has highlighted Mercedes' "relentless" pace and bulletproof reliability during the 2026 car shakedown in Barcelona as a significant early signal, despite the caveat that true performance remains unknown. The Silver Arrows completed a commanding 500 laps over the five-day event, the most of any team, showcasing a cohesive and trouble-free start to the new regulatory era.

Why it matters:

The first running of the radically new 2026 cars provides the initial, albeit fuzzy, picture of the competitive order. Mercedes' ability to rack up mileage without issue while demonstrating consistent pace echoes their dominant approach following the last major power unit regulation change in 2014. For a team that struggled for years to master the previous ground-effect rules, this seamless start suggests they may have hit the ground running with a fundamentally sound package.

The details:

• While lap times were largely irrelevant in a test focused on reliability and data gathering, Mercedes' George Russell was second fastest, just a tenth behind Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton.
• Brundle noted Mercedes appears to have "aced this completely different set of regulations" early on, finding a "sweet spot" with their new car concept.
• Aston Martin's intrigue: The team completed the fewest laps (65) but unveiled one of the grid's most visually distinct cars, featuring aggressive bodywork to manage the new aerodynamic rules. This design bears the early influence of legendary engineer Adrian Newey.
• Questions for Newey: Brundle points out that success for Aston Martin hinges on whether Newey can immediately translate his genius within a new team's infrastructure—its wind tunnels, simulation tools, and personnel—a "tall order straight out the box."

What's next:

The true test begins with official pre-season testing in Bahrain on February 11-13 and 18-20, where higher track temperatures will reveal more about tire performance and overall car balance.

• Brundle cautions that a car working perfectly in Barcelona's cool conditions may overheat its tires in Bahrain, a known past weakness for Mercedes.
• All eyes will be on whether Mercedes can translate its flawless shakedown into sustained performance and if Aston Martin's radical design, backed by Newey's vision, proves to be a masterstroke or a misstep. The 2026 season begins in Australia on March 6.