Mercedes Confirms Two-Stage Launch Plan for 2026 F1 Car
Mercedes will unveil its 2026 F1 car, the W17, via online renders on January 22, followed by a formal launch event on February 2, as the team prepares for the new regulations era with Russell and Antonelli.
Mercedes has announced a two-stage launch plan for its 2026 F1 challenger, the W17, revealing the car through online renders on January 22 before a formal season launch event on February 2. The announcement makes the Silver Arrows the fourth team to confirm its launch date for the new regulations era, with the car set to hit the track for pre-season testing in Barcelona just days after the initial reveal.
Why it matters:
As F1 enters a significant new era with revamped technical regulations for 2026, the launch of the W17 is a critical moment for Mercedes. After finishing as runners-up in 2025, the team is aiming to close the gap to McLaren and challenge for the championship with a driver lineup of George Russell and the exciting young talent Kimi Antonelli.
The details:
- Online Reveal: Mercedes will first showcase the W17 through online renders on Thursday, January 22. This digital-first approach allows fans worldwide an immediate look at the car's design philosophy under the new rules.
- Formal Launch Event: A more traditional launch event will take place on February 2, featuring drivers, senior personnel, and the physical car. This event will also be streamed online, providing a closer look at the machine and the team's ambitions for the season.
- Pre-Season Testing: The car's on-track debut will follow shortly after at the first pre-season test in Barcelona, which will be held behind closed doors, limiting initial public visibility of the car's performance.
- Driver Lineup: The team retains its 2025 driver pairing of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for a second consecutive season, banking on their combined experience and raw speed to fight for the title.
- 2025 Context: Mercedes enters the new season on the back of a solid 2025 campaign where they secured second in the Constructors' Standings and claimed two race victories, both with Russell at the wheel.
What's next:
With the launch dates set, all eyes will be on Mercedes' design choices for the W17. The team's performance in the closed-door Barcelona test will provide the first real indication of their competitiveness heading into the 2026 season opener. Williams and McLaren are now the only two teams yet to announce their official launch plans.