Mercedes and Haas Bring Sole Upgrades to US GP Amidst 2026 Focus

Mercedes and Haas are the only two teams on the Formula 1 grid to introduce upgrades at the United States Grand Prix, a stark contrast to the usual mid-season development push. With a significant shift in regulations looming for 2026, most teams have already diverted their resources towards future car development, making these singular updates all the more notable.

Why it matters:

This limited upgrade activity highlights a critical juncture in Formula 1's development cycle. Teams are prioritizing the upcoming 2026 regulation changes, a strategic pivot that often sees current-season development slow down. For Mercedes, a small update suggests fine-tuning, while Haas's substantial package signals a late-season attempt to improve performance ahead of next year's car.

The details:

• Mercedes' Minimalist Approach: The Silver Arrows have introduced a minor tweak to their rear corner. This upgrade includes a reprofiled upper lip and reduced span winglets.
  • Goal: The primary aim is to enhance local airflow quality around the top wishbone and increase tire clearance, potentially offering marginal aerodynamic gains.
• Haas's Significant Overhaul: In contrast, Haas has brought a comprehensive upgrade package, marking their first major update since the British Grand Prix.
  • Components: The package is heavily focused on the floor of the VF-25, featuring a new floor body, floor fences, floor edges, sidepod inlets, and a redesigned rear corner winglet.
  • Testing: Esteban Ocon is slated to run these new parts during the sole practice session in Austin. A second set of the upgraded components will be available for Oliver Bearman, indicating a thorough evaluation strategy.

The big picture:

The significant regulation changes for 2026 are already casting a long shadow over the current F1 season. Teams are making crucial decisions about resource allocation, balancing immediate performance gains against long-term competitiveness. This strategic shift means that while a few teams might still bring minor updates, the overall focus has decisively moved towards preparing for the next generation of F1 cars.

What's next:

While Mercedes' upgrade is subtle, Haas's more extensive package will be closely watched during practice. Its performance could offer insights into their development direction and whether they can unlock any significant speed improvements in the remaining races. The results of these limited upgrades will provide valuable data as all teams continue their extensive preparations for the transformative 2026 season.