Mercedes has officially rolled out its 2026 Formula 1 car, the W17, for a first shakedown at Silverstone. Just hours after its public unveiling, George Russell took the wheel, running Pirelli’s grooved demonstration tyres. This initial run marks the beginning of the team's physical testing program for the upcoming technical era.

The shakedown is a critical early step as Mercedes prepares for F1’s major regulation overhaul in 2026. The team, based in Brackley, aims to understand the car's basic systems and performance envelope before official pre-season testing begins. This run provides valuable baseline data for their engineering team.

With this first mileage completed, Mercedes will now analyze the data before further testing sessions. The team’s performance in 2026 will be closely watched, as the new engine and chassis regulations present a significant opportunity for all teams to reset the competitive order. Russell’s feedback from this run will be crucial.