Mercedes have begun Formula 1's latest generation of rules with a dominant title double, securing the constructors' championship in Brazil with Kimi Antonelli and their team. The 2026 season has delivered fascinating competition as the chasing pack caught up after Mercedes cruised to wins in the first six rounds. Antonelli became F1's youngest ever world champion in Mexico, and his team sealed the constructors' title with three races to spare.
This marks a shift from the 2014 era when Mercedes dominated with eight consecutive titles. Team principal Toto Wolff described the emerging competitive era, noting that professional teams and resources have made runaway seasons no longer the reality. The new FIA rule introduced ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) to level the playing field, with manufacturers more than two percent behind the leader receiving upgrade aid.
Interestingly, Red Bull produced the strongest performing engine in their debut season, challenging Mercedes' long-standing power unit advantage.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing