Max Verstappen has identified a recurring performance challenge for Mercedes, noting the team’s difficulties under specific conditions. His observations follow Mercedes’ recent struggles with a significant aerodynamic upgrade package.
The Brackley-based squad introduced a seven-part update to its W17 car at the recent Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. This package included revisions to the floor, sidepods, engine cover, and rear suspension fairings.
Mercedes engineers aimed to enhance underfloor airflow and increase downforce without incurring a drag penalty. Pre-event simulations suggested a performance gain of approximately 0.3 seconds per lap.
However, the team encountered unexpected issues at the Sepang International Circuit. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff stated that instead of gaining three-tenths, the team was ‘four or five backwards’ in qualifying.
Wolff attributed these performance deficits to straight-line losses and understeer in slower corners. This resulted in Mercedes’ weakest qualifying performance of the 2026 season, with Kimi Antonelli fourth and George Russell eighth.
Antonelli suggested that the ageing tarmac at Sepang might have contributed to their difficulties. He noted Mercedes has historically struggled on older track surfaces, citing Zandvoort as another example.
The Bahrain Grand Prix weekend also saw George Russell retire due to a power unit failure. This incident adds to a season where Mercedes has faced reliability concerns, including earlier battery issues.
Despite an initial strong start to the 2026 season, with a 1-2 finish in Australia and Antonelli’s maiden win in China, reliability problems have impacted Mercedes’ points tally.
Verstappen, who secured pole position and his first win of the 2026 season at Sepang, acknowledged Red Bull’s own car limitations. He indicated that Mercedes’ upgrades could further complicate Red Bull’s pursuit of victories.
Red Bull’s recent upgrades have reportedly addressed some of their car’s weaknesses, contributing to Verstappen’s improved performance at the Malaysian event.
The 2026 regulations, which feature a significant shift towards hybrid power and active aerodynamics, have presented new challenges for all teams.
Verstappen has previously voiced strong opinions on these new regulations, describing them as ‘terrible’ and akin to ‘Mario Kart’ due to the emphasis on battery management.
