Mercedes F1’s 2026 Engine: A Potential 2014-Level Power Shift

Mercedes is gearing up for the upcoming F1 2026 engine regulations with a level of confidence reminiscent of their dominant rise during the 2014 V6 hybrid era. According to Sky F1’s Ted Kravitz, the team is prioritizing their 2026 engine program, even if it means compromising their competitiveness in the 2025 F1 season.

A Glimpse of 2014 in 2026

The new F1 2026 regulations will bring transformative changes, including 50% electrification, 100% sustainable fuels, and active aerodynamics. These shifts parallel the dramatic overhaul in 2014 when Mercedes dominated the sport, clinching eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ Titles shared between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.

Mercedes’ preparations for 2026 have already raised eyebrows. Despite key personnel losses, including Hamilton’s move to Ferrari and former engine head Andy Cowell joining Aston Martin, the team reportedly feels confident about achieving significant gains.

Kravitz explains:

“As Toto Wolff and James Allison say out of Brixworth, the noise is that they’re feeling the same kind of gains they had in 2014. They’re approaching 2026 with a similar level of optimism.”

A Sacrificial 2025?

Mercedes may adopt a strategic approach in 2025, focusing less on the final year of the current regulations. Kravitz suggests this could allow them to pour resources into excelling under the new rules, setting them up for long-term success.

This strategy could have broader implications, especially in their potential pursuit of Max Verstappen, the reigning four-time World Champion. Verstappen, currently with Red Bull until 2028, is rumored to have a performance clause in his contract that might allow him to switch teams if Red Bull fails to deliver a competitive car.

Verstappen in Silver?

Speculation around Verstappen joining Mercedes has intensified. Ola Kallenius, Mercedes’ CEO, recently hinted that the team sees 2026 as a prime opportunity to attract the Dutch superstar, stating:

“The cards will be reshuffled in 2026. New rules bring new opportunities. Max would look good in silver.”

Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan added fuel to the fire, claiming that Mercedes has already initiated plans to secure Verstappen’s services, including creating a “fighting fund” to accommodate his salary demands.

Red Bull’s Challenge with Ford

Meanwhile, Red Bull’s partnership with Ford for 2026 will test the team’s ability to maintain their dominance under new regulations. Team principal Christian Horner acknowledged that matching the standards of Mercedes and Ferrari might take time, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen’s future.

A New Era Beckons

As F1 braces for another major shift, Mercedes is positioning itself to reclaim dominance. While the 2025 season may see sacrifices, the team’s focus on the 2026 regulations could set the stage for another era of supremacy.

With Verstappen potentially in their sights and groundbreaking engine innovations underway, Mercedes’ long-term strategy signals exciting possibilities for the future of Formula 1. Jordan famously predicted Hamilton’s shock move from McLaren to Mercedes at the end of the 2012 season.