“They don’t seem to be at the forefront after all.” – Rumours in Formula 1 tend to spread quickly, particularly in the run-up to a new season. For months, there has been talk in the paddock that Mercedes might once again hold a decisive advantage in terms of the power unit, positioning the Silver Arrows as early favourites given the latest technical developments.

However, according to former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert, this optimistic outlook may not reflect the current situation within the team.

 

 

Mercedes reported to be struggling ahead of testing

With the new F1 season fast approaching, teams are deep into final preparations. A wave of innovation always brings fresh challenges, and early warning signs are already emerging across the grid. Recent reports have suggested that several teams could struggle to have fully race-ready cars for the opening day of pre-season testing in Barcelona on 26 January, with Alpine and Red Bull among those mentioned.

Now, Mercedes has been added to that list, at least indirectly.

Speaking to the betting website, jeffbet.net, Herbert hinted that the German manufacturer had encountered unexpected complications during the installation of its new power unit. While he stressed that no official confirmation has come from the teams themselves, the information he has heard is eyebrow-raising.

“I haven’t heard anything directly from the teams yet,” said Herbert. “However, I have heard that Mercedes had problems installing the power units at the rear of their car and that it then wouldn’t start.”

Such issues, even at this early stage, could be significant. Modern Formula 1 cars are highly integrated machines, with the power unit forming a structural element of the chassis. Any difficulties during installation or initial start-up can affect reliability, packaging and development timelines.

 

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Early doubts about Mercedes’ advantage

Herbert’s comments also challenge the widespread belief that Mercedes had emerged as the benchmark engine manufacturer, ahead of its rivals. For much of the off-season, rumours suggested that the Brackley team was in a particularly strong position for the next cycle of technical regulations.

“Rumour had it that Mercedes was in the strongest position for 2026,” Herbert explained.

“But that now seems not to be the case.”

If accurate, this represents a notable shift in expectations. After several seasons of playing catch-up with Red Bull, Mercedes has been determined to return to the front of the grid. However, any early technical setbacks, particularly relating to the power unit, could hinder their progress, even though such problems are not uncommon during the initial build phase.

 

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Herbert believes that Mercedes has a good mix of drivers

Despite the engine concerns, Herbert remains optimistic about Mercedes’ driver line-up. On 22 January, the team will officially unveil its new car, with George Russell and young Italian talent Kimi Antonelli once again entrusted with leading the charge on the track.

According to Herbert, Russell will play a crucial role in Mercedes’ push back to the front.

“They want to be right at the front again,” he said, making it clear that the British driver is viewed as the team’s reference point.

Russell’s experience and consistency contrast with Antonelli’s raw speed and potential. Herbert believes that this combination could ultimately work in Mercedes’ favour.

“George can also improve under pressure from Kimi Antonelli,” he noted. “At the moment, it’s mainly consistency that differentiates them. George is very consistent, while Antonelli isn’t yet.”

This, Herbert argues, creates a healthy internal competition. The veteran sets the standard, while the youngster pushes the limits, an approach that has benefited many successful teams in the past.

 

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Championship potential depends on the car

Ultimately, however, everything hinges on Mercedes delivering a competitive and reliable car. Herbert is clear that Russell has the ability to fight for the world championship, but only if the car allows it.

“With the right car, George could fight for the world championship,” he said.

Whether Mercedes’ reported engine problems are merely early teething issues or a sign of deeper challenges will become clearer once testing begins.

 

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NEXT ARTICLE – Cadillac Trusts AI With Its Formula 1 Future

Cadillac’s F1 Gamble: Can artificial intelligence deliver results? – Cadillac’s preparations for their highly anticipated entry into Formula 1 are progressing behind the scenes, with artificial intelligence set to play a pivotal role. The American manufacturer has announced a partnership with IFS, an industrial AI software specialist, in a move designed to help the new team operate efficiently and stay within Formula 1’s strict cost cap regulations.

For a team entering the sport for the first time in over a decade, the challenge lies in being competitive without the inefficiencies that often affect new operations. Cadillac’s decision to embed AI-driven systems from the outset signals a strategy focused on structure, automation, and long-term sustainability rather than short-term improvisation.

 

The IFS partnership covers the entire operation

Under the agreement, IFS will become Cadillac Formula 1’s official technology partner and will work with the team from March 2024. The software provider will support a wide range of activities, including supply chain management, production planning, and quality control.

These areas are becoming increasingly important in modern Formula 1, where the speed of development must be balanced against financial constraints. By using AI to monitor workflows, predict bottlenecks and optimise resource allocation, Cadillac aims to reduce waste and eliminate unnecessary manual processes. The IFS brand will also be prominently featured across team assets, including the cars, driver suits, and team apparel…READ MORE ON THIS STORY