Mercedes has emerged as a frontrunner in the 2026 Formula 1 season, demonstrating significant performance improvements. The team currently leads the Constructors’ Championship with 380 points. This follows a 2025 season where Mercedes finished second but faced a 364-point deficit to McLaren, a customer team.
Reports prior to the season indicated Mercedes would be a dominant force. The team’s switch to turbo hybrid engines in 2014 previously showcased their ability to adapt to regulation changes. The W17 car, from the outset, displayed exceptional straight-line speed and energy recovery.
George Russell secured pole position at the Australian Grand Prix, holding an eight-tenth advantage over Isack Hadjar in third. Mercedes achieved four victories within the first seven races of the season. While the W17 is not as dominant now, the team has not deployed early upgrades at the same rate as rivals.
Ferrari also ranks among the most improved teams, currently holding second place in the Constructors’ Championship with 308 points. The SF-26 chassis is widely considered the best on the grid for much of the season. This chassis excels in high-speed corners and tire management.
Lewis Hamilton, driving for Ferrari, is currently second in the Drivers’ Championship with 180 points, ahead of some Mercedes drivers. Ferrari’s aggressive upgrade strategy, including the ‘Macarena’ movable rear wing, has paid dividends. This multi-element wing, introduced at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, allows for significant downforce adjustments.
The ‘Macarena’ design is now being replicated by multiple teams across the grid. Despite being 72 points behind Mercedes in the Constructors’ standings, Ferrari has been a consistent contender. The team’s early upgrade deployment presents a risk of others surpassing them later in the season.
Alpine has also shown considerable improvement, moving back into the midfield. The team’s decision to abandon its factory power unit plans for 2026 in favor of a customer deal with Mercedes was finalized in late 2025. This transition to Mercedes power units, including the full power unit package, was projected to provide immediate performance gains.
The combination of the Mercedes power unit and an improved chassis has seen Alpine perform significantly better this season. Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto have contributed to Alpine’s stronger showing. Alpine currently sits sixth in the Constructors’ Championship with 88 points.
Racing Bulls has elevated its performance, positioning itself at the front of the midfield. The team is currently fifth in the Constructors’ Championship with 95 points. Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad consistently advance to Q3 and secure points.
The team’s closer alignment with the senior Red Bull team, including increased technical collaboration in aerodynamics and suspension, has contributed to this improvement. This synergy, facilitated by shared facilities near Milton Keynes, has solidified Racing Bulls’ midfield standing.
