F1 has been shocked with this new engine from legendary German manufacturer Mercedes. The rules and regulations in 2026 will require changes for the teams regarding engines and aerodynamics. The rules for engines changed way back in 2014 and Mercedes where able to produce an engine that helped them dominate the sport for nearly a decade. The new engine regulations for the 2026 season require even more changes. Will Mercedes be able to produce another engine that they can provide to a number of teams in F1?
What are the new engine regulations for the 2026 season?
F1 has always been the pinnacle of motorsport. If you are the champion of F1, you can state unequivocally that you are the fastest person on the planet. The world has been searching for the next alternative fuel source. And the F1 are keeping up with the international standards. In 2014 they introduced new regulations for the engines that the teams used.
The regulations for the 2014 season included a 1.6-liter V6 turbocharged engine with a hybrid Energy Recovery System (ERS). That was a significant move away from the previous 2.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. And the German giant Mercedes was able to develop an engine that not only met those regulations but also propelled them into the top spot in F1. And they would stay there for a long time.
The new regulations require the teams to make the switch to 50% internal combustion and 50% electric power. Along with that the engines will be powered by 100% sustainable fuel. Sustainable fuel is the focus of the world at the moment. Those regulations have forced the engine provider in the F1 to develop entirely new systems. The engine manufacturers in F1 are Red Bull/Ford Powertrains, Ferrari, Honda, Audi and Mercedes.
What does this mean for British team Williams?
Williams have had some unexpected success in F1. Since the team was founded in 1977, they experienced unrivaled success in a short time frame. They got their first victory in 1979 and followed that with nine Constructors’ Championships between 1980 and 1997, a record at the time. However, a certain German driver behind the wheel of a Ferrari started to dominate the 90’s.
In 2014 the new regulations were introduced. Williams opted to go for a Mercedes engine for their new cars. The Mercedes engine became the best option as Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton would dominate the sport for a very long time indeed. Lewis Hamilton became a living legend at Mercedes. He holds the record for the most race wins with 105, and shares the record for the most world championships with Michael Schumacher at seven.
Williams have chosen to stick with Mercedes for the foreseeable future after the two signed a new contract extension that will see Mercedes supply engines to Williams for the 2026 season and beyond. The partnership has proven to be fruitful one for both parties. Mercedes current championship contender George Russell raced for Williams from 2019 to 2022 and consistently outpaced his teammate, ultimately leading to his move to Mercedes in 2022.
What will the 2026 season look like for Williams and Mercedes?
The development of alternative, sustainable fuels has made its way into the F1 world. The new engines that Mercedes have made and will provide to Williams is a step toward a more sustainable future, as well as ensuring the motorsport world remains relevant in our lives. The 2026 season will be a test for all the teams and engine manufacturers. Mercedes got the formula exactly right in 2014, can they replicate that success in 2026? Williams Racing will be counting on it, amongst others. The 2025 season has produced some surprises already with a certain Australian in a papaya coloured car leading the way. Will 2026 be different?
