2026 regulations: agility and wheel-to-wheel racing
Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 has unveiled the first official images of the W17 prepared for the 2026 season. The car has been designed from the ground up for the new regulations: smaller, narrower, and lighter, featuring active aerodynamics (moveable front and rear wing elements) and a hybrid system with an approximately 50/50 split between electric and combustion power. The rule changes aim to increase agility and enable closer racing — instead of traditional DRS, drivers will switch aero modes: low drag on the straights and higher downforce in twisty sections.
A clean-sheet design: energy efficiency and balance
The W17 is Mercedes’ first interpretation of the new regulations. Alongside compact dimensions and weight reduction, the project emphasizes energy efficiency — from how the car switches between aero configurations to the integration of the internal-combustion unit with a more powerful electric system. The goal is a stable balance and greater freedom for the driver to manage energy.
50/50 hybrid and PETRONAS fuels of the future
The new powertrain architecture places greater emphasis on electrification, reinforced across the grid by advanced, sustainable fuels developed by PETRONAS in collaboration with the team. These are “drop‑in” fuels designed to combine performance with a lower carbon footprint.
Livery: an icon, refreshed
Visually, the W17 stays true to the team’s identity — black and silver accented by PETRONAS green. The AMG rhombus signature appears on the upper sidepods, while a dynamic green flow line visually guides the bodywork, underscoring speed and precision.
Drivers: continuity in the line-up
The team enters the season with an unchanged pairing — George Russell and Kimi Antonelli continue together, strengthening continuity in development and knowledge transfer from the previous year.
Preparation timeline
Key milestones ahead for the W17: the shakedown in Barcelona, then the season launch on February 2, followed by pre‑season testing in Bahrain, where teams will seek early gains in the new era.
Signify is a partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.
Learn PartnerPortal.pro
Especially for you, we have created a knowledge platform for our business partners and experts in the lighting industry. Check us out and stay for longer.