Verstappen Backed for 2026, McLaren Seeks Gains, and Herbert's Mercedes Gut Feeling

As the 2026 season approaches, a mix of driver endorsements, team development focuses, and expert predictions are shaping the pre-season narrative. Former driver Riccardo Patrese has singled out Max Verstappen as the driver best equipped to handle the upcoming major technical overhaul, while McLaren identifies a key area for improvement on its title-defending car. Elsewhere, Johnny Herbert offers a 'gut feeling' on the competitive order under the new regulations.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents the largest technical regulation change in a generation, resetting the competitive landscape. How top drivers adapt and which teams solve the new puzzle fastest will define the next era of Formula 1. Insights from veterans and current team principals provide early clues into the mindset and preparations within the paddock ahead of this significant shift.

The details:

• Verstappen's Anticipated Mastery: Riccardo Patrese believes the complexity of the new power unit regulations will play to Max Verstappen's strengths, backing the Red Bull driver to master the changes.
• McLaren's Development Focus: Team Principal Andrea Stella has pinpointed a specific area on the MCL40 that requires "great improvement" as the Woking team prepares to defend its 2025 championship double.
• Herbert's Early Prediction: Johnny Herbert's "gut feeling" is that Mercedes looks strong for 2026, drawing parallels to their past dominance at the start of new regulatory eras, though he hasn't ruled out challenges from Red Bull and Ferrari.
• Driver Ambitions and Insights: Esteban Ocon has firmly stated his continued belief in winning a World Championship, asserting he wouldn't remain in F1 without that hope. Meanwhile, Valtteri Bottas believes his year as a Mercedes reserve driver has given him a valuable "different angle" of knowledge to aid Cadillac's debut.

What's next:

The true pecking order will only become clear once pre-season testing begins and the cars hit the track under the new regulations. The pressure is on for teams like McLaren to refine their packages and for veterans like Bottas to translate their unique insights into on-track performance. All eyes will be on whether Verstappen and Red Bull can maintain their edge through the regulatory transition or if a team like Mercedes can indeed leap ahead as some predict.