Silver Arrows return with a fresh look for 2026

Mercedes have revealed the first images of their 2026 challenger, which features a revised livery in their iconic silver and black colours. The Silver Arrows, who fought back to finish second in the Teams' Championship last year, will run an unchanged line-up of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli this season.

The W17, like all its rivals, will be smaller, narrower and lighter than its predecessor as it has been designed and built to sweeping new aerodynamic regulations. These changes include active aerodynamics and a near 50-50 power split between the internal combustion engine and electrical energy.

“Formula 1® will undergo significant change in 2026, and we are prepared for that transition," said Team Principal and CEO Toto Wolff. "The new regulations demand innovation and absolute focus across every area of performance. Our work on the new car, and the long-term development of the Power Unit and advanced sustainable fuels with Petronas, reflects that approach."

Mercedes have released renders of their new W17 as part of the buildup to the season. "Releasing the first images of the W17 is simply the next step in that process. It represents the collective, sustained effort of our teams in Brixworth and Brackley. We will continue to push hard in the months ahead.”

The team will join the rest of the grid in Spain next week for the five-day Barcelona Shakedown starting on January 26. The eight-time world champions will then host a formal season launch event with their drivers, senior personnel and the W17 on February 2.

Afterwards, the squad will head to Bahrain for official pre-season testing, with two three-day tests planned (February 11-13 and February 18-20) for teams to refine their cars and start to chase performance ahead of the season opener.

The 2026 Formula 1® season officially kicks off in Melbourne:

• Round 1: Australian Grand Prix (5-8 March)
• Round 2: Chinese Grand Prix (13-15 March)