As Formula 1 gears up for its next-generation cars in 2026, 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve has downplayed assumptions that Mercedes will automatically reclaim their dominance, thanks to their storied power unit expertise.
Mercedes’ engine prowess was unquestionably central to their commanding run at the start of the hybrid era in 2014, and which led to eight consecutive Constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021
While the German manufacturer’s power unit was undeniably a cut above, leaving rivals scrambling to catch up, Villeneuve dismissed speculation that Mercedes’ excellence will guarantee the Silver Arrows a similar edge when the new regulations begin.
“The rumours are based on what happened at the start of the hybrid era, where Mercedes arrived with a five-year advantage on everyone else,” he told Vision4Sport.
“And whenever someone got close, they could just tune it up a bit. They already had the next version waiting in the garage somewhere until someone caught up.
Unlike 2014, when hybrid technology was a bold new frontier, the 2026 power units are an evolution of existing systems.
“Now everybody’s thinking, they did it once, it will be the same thing now,” he added. “I don’t think the manufacturers will get caught out a second time the same way.
“Now everybody understands this kind of power unit. They have a good base. So why would Mercedes suddenly be able to take another leap forward?”.
A Level Playing Field?
The 2026 regulations will introduce revamped power units with a greater emphasis on sustainable fuels and enhanced electrical components, but Villeneuve remains skeptical that Mercedes can replicate their past leap forward.
“It’s not a new technology,” he argued. “It’s the same that’s kind of re-imagined, it’s not the same prospect. But they live on that.
“They might well have an amazing engine, but there’s no way to know now. It’s just rumours. Nobody knows what’s happening in the design department.
The former Williams driver’s comments highlight a broader sentiment in the paddock: while Mercedes’ engineering pedigree is undeniable, their rivals – Ferrari, Honda and Red Bull – have spent years mastering hybrid technology.
Teams are therefore better equipped to adapt to the new rules, potentially narrowing the gap that Mercedes once exploited.
As the sport braces for change, Villeneuve’s skepticism underscores a key truth: in Formula 1, past success is no guarantee of future glory.
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