Mercedes has released the first on-track images of their 2026 Formula 1 car. The Brackley-based team revealed the design and livery of their eagerly awaited W17 on Friday morning, ahead of its initial shakedown at a rain-soaked Silverstone circuit. Drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli shared driving duties during the filming day, completing 67 laps and covering approximately 200 kilometers.
Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin, stated, “We had an excellent first day running the W17 at Silverstone. As with any shakedown, the priority was to ensure everything operates safely and reliably. Both George and Kimi successfully completed their mileage, experiencing the new 2026 car on track for the first time.”
He added, “This success is a credit to the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth. Our focus now shifts to Barcelona, where we aim to build on today’s efforts and gain a deeper understanding of the W17.”
Mercedes is now the fifth F1 team to have run a 2026 car on track, joining Audi, Cadillac, Red Bull Racing, and Alpine. The team is heading to Spain for the mass shakedown scheduled at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit from January 26 to 30. Following this, Mercedes will host a public season launch event on February 2 and participate in two official pre-season tests in Bahrain ahead of the Australian Grand Prix on March 8.
Last season, Mercedes finished second in the constructors’ championship, trailing world champions McLaren. Reports suggest Mercedes has exploited a loophole in the regulations that allows their engines to run at higher compression ratios than normally permitted. Rival teams worry this could give Mercedes and their customer teams a significant advantage as F1 enters a new era.
Fan Take: This unveiling is a pivotal moment for Racing fans as it marks the beginning of a new chapter with innovative engineering and potential regulatory breakthroughs. Mercedes’ early progress and possible engine advantage make this season one of the most exciting and competitive in recent F1 history.
