P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, has stated that whilst certain goals are being met by the Brackley squad ahead of the 2026 F1 power unit rules change, it is difficult to know how well things are developing.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed uncertainty regarding the development of the German marque’s 2026 F1 power unit. The team will continue supplying engines to three customer teams under the new regulations coming into effect. Williams and McLaren will retain their ties with Mercedes, while Aston Martin will partner with Honda. Alpine, on the other hand, will shift from being a works team to procuring engines from Mercedes following Renault’s exit from the series. Expectations are high for Mercedes to perform strongly in the new power unit era, but Wolff remains cautious, acknowledging the lack of definitive reference points compared to rival manufacturers. In a recent media interaction, Wolff emphasized the complexity of meeting targets and the challenges of setting appropriate expectations in this evolving landscape, leaving the team uncertain about its current standing.
