Rumors: Mercedes' 2026 Power Unit Faces Early Teething Issues
Johnny Herbert claims Mercedes' 2026 power unit struggled to start during early installation. The rumors emerge as the FIA prepares to discuss new regulations with teams ahead of the Barcelona shakedown.
Former FIA steward Johnny Herbert has sparked fresh speculation regarding Mercedes' competitiveness for the 2026 season by claiming the manufacturer's new power unit encountered significant hurdles during early testing. According to Herbert, the engine reportedly failed to start during its initial installation in the car, raising eyebrows just as the team faces scrutiny over alleged regulatory loopholes.
Why it matters:
Mercedes has historically been the benchmark for engine performance in the hybrid era, making any early stumble significant. With the 2026 regulation reset introducing complex new power unit requirements, reliability issues at this stage could allow rivals like Ferrari or Red Bull Powertrains to seize an early advantage in the development race.
The details:
- Herbert stated he heard the engine "failed to start" during its first fitment into the chassis, a fundamental issue for any new power unit.
- These rumors follow recent allegations regarding a "compression trick" Mercedes may be utilizing, with the FIA scheduling a meeting with teams for January 22 to clarify regulations.
- The 2026 cars are set to make their official on-track debut on January 26 in Barcelona, marking the start of a critical three-test program before the Australian Grand Prix.
- Off-track, Mercedes executives are also pushing to reschedule an NLS endurance race to allow Max Verstappen to participate, avoiding a clash with the Chinese Grand Prix.
Between the lines:
While teething problems are expected with entirely new engine concepts, a failure to start is a basic yet critical hurdle. The timing of these claims, just days before the FIA meeting and the first shakedown, adds pressure on the Brackley squad. It suggests the team might be pursuing aggressive design concepts that are proving difficult to harness initially.
What's next:
The upcoming Barcelona test will be the first reality check for the entire grid. While lap times in January are rarely indicative of true pace, the ability of the Mercedes power unit to complete installation laps without drama will be the primary indicator of whether Herbert's rumors are cause for concern or merely early development noise.