Paddock whispers and speculation suggest Mercedes will have the power unit to beat in F1 2026, and one advantage for the manufacturer has already been identified.

F1 2026 sees Formula 1 introduce very different power unit regulations, with a ratio split of 50/50 between power from the internal combustion engine and the electrical hybrid ancillaries – a significant increase in electrical power output from the current hybrid power units.

Where Mercedes does have an advantage for F1 2026

After a few years of stability on the power unit front after the introduction of an engine freeze at the end of 2021, all eyes are on the manufacturers to see which of them can come out of the blocks with the best power unit for the new regulations.

There are more names in the mix: Not only does Red Bull

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