Mercedes Unveils Significant Upgrades for W17 During Bahrain Pre-Season Testing

Mercedes is making substantial changes to its 2026 Formula 1 challenger, the W17, during the second week of pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. These upgrades focus on aerodynamics and aim to enhance performance ahead of the season opener in Melbourne.

Extensive Aerodynamic Modifications

The Brackley-based team has introduced a flurry of modern parts to the car, with both Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell evaluating the updates. Key areas of modification include the sidepods, floor, rear diffuser and mirror supports.

The most noticeable change is a redesigned sidepod concept, now tighter and less angular than the previous iteration seen during the Barcelona shakedown and the first Bahrain test [1]. Mercedes has also ‘completely redesigned’ their floor, featuring a more contoured profile and revised leading and rear edges [1].

Further modifications include revised brake ducts at the front of the car and a new front wing endplate incorporating horizontal vanes, a trend also adopted by teams like McLaren [1]. At the rear, the engine cover has been slightly revised to accommodate the exhaust system, and cooling gills on the sidepods have been updated.

Driver Performance and Testing Schedule

Kimi Antonelli and George Russell are sharing driving duties during the Bahrain tests. Antonelli completed 69 laps on the first day of the second test, focusing on evaluating the new updates [3]. Russell followed with 78 laps, topping the timing screens with a 1:33.459 [3].

Antonelli also topped the timing screens on the final day of testing, setting a time of 1m 33.669s, ahead of Russell [2] and [4]. Mercedes’ performance has reaffirmed its position as a potential frontrunner for the 2026 championship [4].

Looking Ahead

With the pre-season tests nearing completion, Mercedes will continue to refine the W17 before the first race in Melbourne. The team aims to maximize the remaining track time to further improve the car’s performance and reliability [3].