Alex Albon expects Mercedes to produce a top-quality engine for the 2026 engine regulations. As a new era of F1 approaches, the performance and reliability of power units will again come to the forefront. With his knowledge, the sentiment among drivers is that Mercedes can be trusted to deliver at the highest level.
George Russell recently commented on his confidence in the Mercedes engine department. The factory in Brixworth is no stranger to success in F1, and can be credited with giving the team a huge advantage at the beginning of the hybrid era.
Although Russell speaking positively about his own team is to be expected, he is not the only one with confidence in the German manufacturer’s abilities.
With so many engine suppliers entering F1 in 2026, performance will vary across the field. New entrants like Audi are under pressure to bridge the gap to established teams.
Mercedes have all the facilities, infrastructure and personnel to excel. They are no strangers to hitting the ground running when regulations change. Of course, the last few years have somewhat damaged the perception of the German outfit.
(L to R): James Allison (GBR) Mercedes AMG F1 Technical Director with Toto Wolff (GER) Mercedes AMG F1 Shareholder and Executive Director.
27.04.2019. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 4, Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Baku Street Circuit, Azerbaijan, Qualifying Day.
Photo credit should read: XPB/Press Association Images.
ALBON EXPECTS STRONG MERCEDES ENGINE IN 2026
Speaking in an interview with total-motorsport.com, Alex Albon revealed his confidence in Mercedes engines:
“I think Mercedes, time and time again, when it comes to these regulation changes, they seem to be one step ahead of their rivals. Not to say I don’t think other teams will do a good job.
“But I think it’s at least a safe bet. When you look at maybe the other midfield teams who are bringing in a new power unit, I’m sure they’re going to put in a lot of money to hit the ground running.”
For a team like Williams, the success of their suppliers is essential. Without a strong engine from Mercedes, the Grove-based team will be fighting an uphill battle.
Luckily for James Vowles and Albon, the Silver Arrows have consistently produced power units at the highest level. That said, in recent years, Honda and Ferrari engines have caught up and even surpassed Mercedes.
After a difficult few seasons, Toto Wolff’s personnel see 2026 as a golden chance. Aerodynamics will always be essential, but engine development is going to be elevated in performance by 2026.
Meanwhile, Williams can take inspiration from McLaren – who are proving that being a customer team is not necessarily a limiting factor.
