P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes is widely considered to be the favourite heading into F1’s rules revolution in 2026.
Toto Wolff has raised doubts about Mercedes’ level of ambition in setting targets prior to the 2026 rules overhaul in Formula 1.
Mercedes is seen as the frontrunner for the 2026 changes, which will bring significant modifications to both the power unit and chassis, resembling the team’s success with the introduction of turbo hybrids in 2014.
In the upcoming 2026 season, power units will see a threefold increase in electrical energy to 350kw, with the removal of the MGU-H and the introduction of 100% synthetic fuels.
On-track testing of the new cars is scheduled to commence next month with a private test in Barcelona, followed by official pre-season testing in Bahrain in February.
Despite their current progress, Wolff has expressed uncertainty about whether Mercedes’ preparations have been adequate enough for the impending alterations.
Wolff emphasized the challenge of forecasting outcomes, reflecting on past experiences such as unexpected success in 2013 and noticing Mercedes’ early dominance in winter testing ahead of the 2014 season, while acknowledging the present heightened competitiveness across the grid.
