During the closed-door shakedown in Barcelona in late January, Mercedes caught attention as the new F1 2026 cars underwent their initial runs, with the session running smoothly for most teams. George Russell expressed surprise at how well the rival engine manufacturers performed in the unofficial pre-season test, highlighting the strong capabilities shown by Mercedes’ competitors on the powertrain front.
Assessing Engine Performance Amid F1’s Significant 2026 Changes
Formula 1 has seen major transformations for the 2026 season, including lighter cars, active aerodynamic components, and a new hybrid power unit design featuring an equal split between electric and biofuel energy. The engine manufacturers and teams tested these innovations at the Barcelona track between 26 and 30 January, away from public and media scrutiny.
Among the manufacturers, Mercedes reportedly completed the highest number of laps, with an unofficial count near 500, signaling reliability and endurance across the three days of testing. Mercedes is competing alongside Ferrari, Honda, Red Bull Ford, and Audi as the five power unit manufacturers preparing for the new season.
Remarkably, both Red Bull Ford and Audi faced only minor initial challenges with their newly built power units before running consistently, a notable feat considering these power projects were developed from the ground up specifically for the 2026 regulations. Meanwhile, Mercedes and Ferrari power units appeared to perform effectively, though Aston Martin’s limited mileage left the true potential of Honda’s engine less clear.
George Russell Comments on Rival Power Unit Progress
Reflecting on the test, George Russell acknowledged the unexpected level of progress demonstrated by other teams.
“I think on the power unit side, there’s some impressive things from some of our competitors, and that’s quite surprising, to be honest,”
he said.
Adding perspective on the early stage of testing, Russell remarked,
“So yeah, well done to them. But obviously, three days into a 24-race season, so you don’t want to judge too much into that.”
He also pointed out initial expectations about difficulties facing new power unit suppliers had not materialized, stating,
“I think a lot of people anticipated the new power unit suppliers to be sort of struggling and whatnot, and they’ve sort of had a good test as well. So, that’s good for them, but for us, time will tell.”
Looking Ahead to Bahrain Pre-Season Tests and the New Season
Following the Barcelona shakedown, all teams will head to Bahrain for two official pre-season tests scheduled between 11-13 and 18-20 February. These upcoming sessions will provide further insights into car and engine performance and reliability before the season opener.
Russell expressed eagerness for the next steps in the build-up.
“I’m looking forward to Bahrain, but just looking forward to going racing now, to be honest,”
he commented,
“and sort of really see where we all shake out.”
With the season set to begin with the Australian Grand Prix on 8 March, the promising results from Barcelona have set the stage for a competitive and closely fought campaign among the manufacturers and teams, including Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull Ford, Honda, and Audi.
