The upcoming F1 2026 regulations promise an overhaul not only of the sport’s aerodynamics and power units but of the status quo.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff hopes his team will once again return to the top, with Scuderia Ferrari as his primary rival.
Why it matters:
The F1 2026 ruleset will massively overhaul the pinnacle of open-wheel racing, aiming to create a more competitive and exciting spectacle. With significant changes planned, the grid order is expected to shift.
The big picture:
- New Car Design: Lighter, more agile cars paired with active aerodynamics are intended to increase overtaking opportunities, even with the removal of the Drag Reduction System (DRS).
- Sustainable Power: The introduction of 100 per cent sustainable fuels and a new hybrid power unit designed to balance the internal combustion engine and its accompanying electric motor. This technological shift is set to redefine performance dynamics.
The details:
While Red Bull and McLaren dominated the 2022 regulations, Toto Wolff is looking towards 2026 for a battle between Mercedes and Ferrari.
Wolff dismissed current speculation about Mercedes being a clear favorite, telling Gazzetta dello Sport: "It’s just gossip; we don’t know anything."
He anticipates strong competition from other manufacturers:
- Ferrari
- Honda with Aston Martin
- Red Bull with their new engines
- Audi
However, in an ideal world, Wolff would face Fred Vasseur and Scuderia Ferrari for the championship.
"Seeing Ferrari against Mercedes would be wonderful. A classic," Wolff stated. He envisions a thrilling rivalry with "Lewis [Hamilton] and Charles [Leclerc] against Kimi [Antonelli] and George [Russell], an incredible challenge."
Looking ahead, the F1 grid will expand to 11 teams with Cadillac’s entry, bringing a diverse range of power unit suppliers: Mercedes, Ferrari, Audi, Honda, and Ford.
What's next:
Most teams have already begun focusing their developmental efforts on the 2026 regulations. The coming seasons will reveal which teams have best adapted to the new era.