Mercedes

Mercedes' unusual two-phase front wing activation during the Chinese Grand Prix was caused by a reliability problem, not an exploit, the FIA has accepted. The quirk on Kimi Antonelli's winning car drew questions from an unnamed rival team. Ferrari denied involvement in the FIA query.

March 25, 2026 Reported by AI

The FIA has launched an investigation into Mercedes' movable front wing on its 2026 W17 car following a rival team's request for clarification after the Chinese Grand Prix. The wing allegedly closes in two phases, with the second exceeding the 400-millisecond regulatory limit. Officials aim to resolve the issue before the upcoming Suzuka Grand Prix.

Data from the 2026 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix reveals Mercedes maintaining a performance advantage over Ferrari despite close battles. Kimi Antonelli secured his maiden victory for Mercedes, with Lewis Hamilton achieving his first podium for Ferrari. Ferrari's strong starts have not translated into wins due to deficits in top speed and tyre management.

March 16, 2026 Reported by AI

Jacques Villeneuve has argued that Mercedes' dominance in the early 2026 Formula 1 season is not as overwhelming as in 2014. The 1997 F1 champion highlighted differences in performance gaps and car characteristics. He predicts other teams will improve energy management.

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that Ferrari can challenge Mercedes more closely at the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix, following a strong start in Australia. The team finished third and fourth in Melbourne, trailing the Mercedes drivers. Both drivers highlighted ongoing development efforts to narrow the performance gap.

March 12, 2026 Reported by AI

Flavio Briatore has confirmed that the Mercedes Formula 1 team is negotiating to acquire a 24% stake in Alpine from Otro Capital. The announcement came during a press conference at the Chinese Grand Prix. Briatore emphasized that the deal involves Mercedes as a team, not team principal Toto Wolff personally.