Mercedes has formally welcomed its 2026 Formula 1 world champions to its Brackley and Brixworth facilities. The team celebrated securing both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships for the first time since the 2020 season.
Kimi Antonelli, the new Drivers’ Champion, was central to the celebrations. His title was clinched at the Mexican Grand Prix.
The Constructors’ crown was secured four days prior at the São Paulo Grand Prix.
Mercedes’ success marks their ninth Constructors’ title overall, and their first since 2021. This achievement places them level with Williams in third position on the all-time list.
Ferrari leads with 16 Constructors’ titles, followed by McLaren with 10.
The team’s performance in the initial year of the new engine regulatory cycle has been noted as a significant factor in their championship success.
Antonelli, George Russell, and Team Principal Toto Wolff visited Brixworth, home of Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP).
They subsequently joined celebrations at the Brackley base, located near Silverstone.
Toto Wolff acknowledged the team’s journey, stating the past years had tested them. He noted the team made mistakes, challenged itself, and implemented changes.
“There are moments when you must stop and appreciate what has been achieved and is one of them,” said Wolff. “The past few years have tested us. We made mistakes, we challenged ourselves, we changed, and we kept working. There was never going to be a shortcut back to fighting for championships.”
Wolff emphasised that the Constructors’ Championship belongs to every individual within the team. He highlighted the collective effort behind every detail and improvement.
Antonelli’s individual achievement was described as very special. Mercedes has supported him through its junior programme into Formula 1 and now to a World Championship.
His performance under pressure on track was specifically commended by Wolff.
George Russell’s contribution was also deemed fundamental to the season’s success. Russell maintained a high level of performance throughout the year.
His consistency and presence when required by the team were crucial. Wolff stated Russell’s impact extended beyond his points tally.
Russell’s leadership, experience, and commitment were cited as hugely important factors. The Constructors’ Championship would not have been possible without him.
The ‘radical’ aspect concerning Antonelli refers to a distinctive new hairstyle he adopted. This personal choice garnered attention during the championship celebrations.
Mercedes’ strong start to the 2026 regulatory period mirrors their performance at the beginning of the hybrid era in 2014.
The 2026 power unit regulations feature a greater electrical component. A 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical power is now mandated.
Mercedes HPP developed a highly efficient and reliable power unit. This provided the team with an early advantage in the new technical cycle.
Their engine design reportedly offered superior energy recovery and deployment strategies. This contributed significantly to their competitive edge.
Antonelli, at 20 years old, became one of the youngest F1 champions in history. His rapid progression through the Mercedes junior programme led directly to his F1 seat.
Russell secured multiple podium finishes throughout the season. His consistent race pace and strategic execution were key to supporting the team’s championship bid.
