Mercedes 2026 F1 Car: Silverstone Shakedown

Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team has begun on-track testing of its 2026 challenger, the W17, at Silverstone Circuit. This marks a significant step in preparations for the upcoming season, which will usher in a new era of technical regulations for the sport.

First Track Run for 2026 Mercedes Car

Just hours after the car’s unveiling, both George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli took to the track, completing 67 laps of Silverstone’s 2.9km International circuit. The team utilized Pirelli’s grooved ‘demo’ tires for this initial shakedown. This initial run allowed both drivers to experience the new car firsthand.

Did You Know? Mercedes has a history of conducting filming days at Silverstone, leveraging its proximity to the team’s chassis headquarters in Brackley and engine department in Brixworth.

The test utilized one of the team’s two allocated promotional event days, permitting 200km of running. This shakedown represented the first time the Mercedes works team tested its complete 2026 package together. Prior to this, Alpine, a customer team of Mercedes, had already completed a shakedown of its 2026 V6 hybrid engine at the same venue.

Team Perspective

Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes trackside engineering director, stated, “We have had a sensible first day of running with the W17 at Silverstone. As with any shakedown, the focus is on ensuring everything operates safely and reliably. We were able to get through our allotted mileage, with both George and Kimi getting to experience the 2026 car on track for the first time. That is testament to the hard work of everyone at Brackley and Brixworth.”

Expert Insight: The early testing phase is crucial for teams to validate designs and identify potential issues before the more intensive pre-season testing program. Successfully completing a shakedown with the full package is a positive indicator of a well-coordinated development process.

Nearly half of the expanded 11-team grid has now completed shakedowns of their 2026 machinery. Audi, Cadillac, Racing Bulls, and Alpine have all preceded Mercedes in testing their new cars.

The teams will next converge at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26-30 for the first official test of the 2026 season. Teams will select three days from the five-day window for testing. Further tests are scheduled in Bahrain in February, and will be open to the public and media.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Silverstone test?

The Silverstone test was a shakedown to ensure the W17 operates safely and reliably, and to allow drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli to experience the car on track for the first time.

Which drivers participated in the test?

George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli both drove the W17 during the shakedown at Silverstone.

What is the next step in the 2026 car development?

The teams will converge at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on January 26-30 for the first official test of the 2026 season.

As teams prepare for the new regulations, what aspects of the 2026 cars will be most crucial for competitive success?