Toto Wolff says Mercedes won’t wait until 2026 without trying to become competitive again
Mercedes has been struggling since the 2022 reset. However, the German team does not intend to remain passive while waiting for the changes planned for 2026.
Mercedes is undoubtedly the big loser of the regulations reset in 2022. After dominating the constructors’ championship for seven seasons, the team is currently struggling. Although reliability is not a problem, performance has declined, with only one win for the W13 and the W14 at the Brazil Grand Prix 2022.
Despite an encouraging end to the 2022 season and renewed hope for the new season, 2023 has not been a very positive year for Mercedes. Although they finished second in the championship, an improvement from the previous season, the gap with Red Bull is considerable, and Mercedes no longer seems to have a clear superiority over its competitors.
Stay competitive
The new regulation with the floor does not seem to suit Mercedes and its engineers. The engine, designed for four seasons without the possibility of modifications, proves to be insufficient, and handling problems are reported by the two drivers. However, the German team does not plan to wait passively until the 2026 reset.
« “I don’t want to give up as of today by saying, “Well, let’s wait for 2026 with a new car and a new engine” »,” Toto Wolff told AutoSport. « We still have two crucial years left. I want to see this as a demonstration of the team’s strength, proving that we are capable of recovering and fighting for championships. This is our clear goal. »
Little chance of reaching the summit before 2026
The 2026 season will bring significant changes to the single-seater cars. The motor-generator units will be abandoned, deemed too complex and costly. In addition, the power of the hybrid engine group will triple, reaching 350 kW, thus equalling that of the turbocharged thermal engine. Changes will also include active front and rear wings, 18-inch rims instead of 16, and a weight reduction of 50 kg for lighter and narrower single-seater cars.
Toto Wolff believes that, before these major changes, Mercedes’ chances of regaining first place were slim. « Observing the performances of other teams, notably Aston Martin during the winter of 2023, McLaren gained a second thanks to an upgrade », analyzed the Austrian director. « Initially, the team hoped for an improvement of 0.25 seconds… There is a critical point to find that releases more potential. I think the major element is that the drivers start to have confidence in their car, which they couldn’t do with the 2024 car. »
At Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton shares the same perspective. The six-time World Champion is not convinced that Mercedes can quickly regain its dominant position. « I think there are improvements, but it’s not enough », said the Briton to AutoSport. « We understand the car better and have developed excellent tools behind the scenes. So, I have hope for 2024, although I remain cautious. »
In 2023, Mercedes finished in second place in the championship, ahead of Ferrari by three points.
