McLaren backs Mercedes to rebound in Austria after Ferrari breakthrough

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella expects Mercedes to regain the upper hand at the Austrian Grand Prix, as the Red Bull Ring's layout favors the championship leaders over Ferrari. Ferrari snapped Mercedes' winning streak in Barcelona with a major upgrade package, but Stella believes the Austrian circuit's emphasis on straight-line braking and low-speed corners will play to Mercedes' strengths. The prediction comes as reigning double champion McLaren continues its own recovery from a difficult start to the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

With Ferrari closing the gap and McLaren struggling to defend its 2025 crowns, the front-running order remains volatile. Stella's assessment shows how track characteristics could decide which team controls the next phase of the championship, adding pressure on Ferrari to prove its Barcelona pace was more than a one-off.

The Details:

• Circuit contrast: Stella noted Barcelona rewards stability, braking, and cornering—areas where Ferrari excelled with recent upgrades. Austria demands a different approach, with more straight-line braking into low-speed corners that could neutralize that edge.
• Mercedes' edge: Stella still considers Mercedes the "best car overall" over one lap when combining chassis and power unit, suggesting the Brackley squad remains the benchmark despite its Spanish slip-up.
• McLaren's position: After dominating 2025, McLaren has fallen off the pace and cannot challenge the leading duo. Stella confirmed the team is targeting internal development rather than obsessing over rivals.
• Upgrade race: McLaren plans to bring upgrades soon, though Stella acknowledged Mercedes and Ferrari will likely improve simultaneously.

What's next:

The Austrian GP will test whether Ferrari's resurgence is genuine or circuit-dependent, while Mercedes aims to reassert its dominance. For McLaren, the weekend offers another chance to claw back ground through better tire management and incremental gains, with Stella emphasizing that "maximum focus" remains on internal progress rather than the external title fight.