Mercedes has signaled that the biggest chapter of its 2026 development story may still be ahead, with the team preparing a “sizeable” upgrade package for the W17 once Formula 1 returns from its summer shutdown.
The Brackley squad has been the standout performer of the sport’s new regulations era. Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have combined to win eight of the opening 11 races, propelling Mercedes to the top of both championships.
The young Italian heads into the break with a commanding 50-point advantage over Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, while Mercedes enjoys a comfortable 72-point lead in the Constructors’ standings.
Although the team introduced a major upgrade package in Canada, its recent approach has centered on smaller refinements. But it looks like that strategy is now set to change.
Mercedes eyes a bigger leap
Speaking at the Hungarian Grand Prix, deputy technical director Simone Resta explained that Mercedes is already planning a more ambitious step for the second half of the season.
“Ultimately, I think we tried to have strong development for the first race from the winter test,” Resta said.
“Then we have had, at almost every race, a little step here and there, and then another big step in Canada.
“We always try to keep bringing little steps here and there at every race.”
Resta acknowledged that some rivals have been more aggressive with their update programmes but insisted Mercedes remains committed to continuous improvement.
“Of course, we have seen teams bringing more stuff than us, which is great for them, and we are still trying to bring some items at every race,” he added.
The Italian then revealed the team’s post-break objective.
“Probably, after the shutdown, we will try to focus on having something more sizeable on the car,” Resta said.
“So, we are clearly focused on trying to develop the car at every event, but also trying to think bigger by bringing another step to the car.”
The comments suggest Mercedes is aiming not merely to defend its current advantage, but to strengthen it as the championship battle intensifies.
Antonelli and Russell raising the bar
Resta also praised the internal competition between Antonelli and Russell, describing it as a key factor in Mercedes’ strong campaign.
“First of all, it’s great to see both drivers [Antonelli and George Russell] performing at a very good level,” he said.
“There have been some ups and downs in the various races, but fundamentally both of them have been very strong so far, with good performances.”
©Mercedes
For Mercedes, that rivalry is viewed as a positive force rather than a source of tension.
“This is very good because it lifts the level between the two of them. This challenge within the team is always very important for the overall competitiveness of the team,” Resta said?
“That is what matters to us.”
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With Hamilton now leading Ferrari’s challenge, Resta admitted there is still a strong emotional connection between the seven-time world champion and the team where he achieved most of his success.
“It’s great to see Lewis fighting at the front,” he said. “Lewis has had an incredible journey in Brackley, and the run is still very close to him emotionally.
“So it’s great to see him there. It’s great to see him fighting. It makes the sport better, so it’s nice to see.”
Mercedes may be leading the championship charge, but Resta’s remarks underline that the team is far from standing still.
As rivals chase the Silver Arrows, Brackley is preparing another major strike — one that could shape the decisive phase of the 2026 season.
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