Following the conclusion of pre-season testing for the 1 F2026 season, George Russell, a prominent driver for Mercedes, firmly believes Red Bull possesses the superior energy deployment system among all teams.
Significant regulatory changes are set to be implemented this season, notably affecting the power unit, which will incorporate increased electrical energy. Consequently, the efficient collection of battery power will be crucial during Grand Prix events.
This new setup could involve drivers engaging in downshifts even on straight sections of the track, a prospect that has generated diverse reactions: Max Verstappen described it as akin to “Formula E on steroids,” while Lando Norris found it to be “a lot of fun.”
Verstappen’s remarks were made even as competitors lauded Red Bull’s proprietary engine – their inaugural in-house construction – with Toto Wolff having previously declared it “the benchmark” that Mercedes was “unable to rival.”
Despite the possibility that those remarks were strategically influenced by the ongoing compression ratio controversy, Russell reiterated his team principal’s sentiments, remarking: “Their energy utilization unequivocally remains the top performer in the field, which is commendable for them and, I believe, came as somewhat of a shock to everyone.
He continued: “Therefore, I anticipate we will observe how the situation evolves once we reach Melbourne [the season’s inaugural race in March]. I believe the teams running Mercedes power units have demonstrated considerable progress since the initial day of testing in Bahrain last week, leading to a substantial reduction in the performance difference.”
Russell added: “However, we are presently at the sixth day of Bahrain testing, while in Melbourne there will be only three hours of practice available – and that represents the primary area of apprehension.”
George Russell, Mercedes
Photo by: Simon Galloway / LAT Images via Getty Images
It’s important to note, however, that these observations stem from pre-season testing, so definitive conclusions should be avoided. Additionally, Bahrain’s circuit, characterized by numerous long straights, presents distinct features compared to venues like Jeddah and Albert Park, implying that the potential for energy recovery will fluctuate from one race location to another.
McLaren’s Oscar Piastri commented in Bahrain on Friday: “At particular circuits, our capacity for energy harvesting will be considerably more restricted than it is at this venue. Here, based on your optimal settings, minimal lift-and-coast maneuvers are required; conversely, in Melbourne, I believe neglecting such actions would lead to a rapid depletion of energy.”
He further explained: “The specifics are entirely dependent on the circuit’s configuration. Jeddah exemplifies this, with its series of straights connected by high-speed corners making harvesting exceptionally challenging; this is where the greatest deviations from the norm are anticipated.”
Piastri added: “Indeed, substantial variations are expected. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that adjustments can be made significantly. We observed drivers at Turn 12 here who could certainly influence a corner if desired, and it presents a much tougher challenge than in the previous season. Currently, however, most parameters are configured before entering the car. Real-time alterations are possible.”
He concluded: “However, the situation is somewhat distinct as management isn’t solely about throttle input, so to speak. Therefore, Melbourne will present a rather different scenario, I believe, and will undoubtedly pose a significant test for everyone involved.”
