Two F1 teams tipped for 2026 title battle: 'That might be the big one'

McLaren and Mercedes have been tipped by former F1 strategist Bernie Collins to be the front-runners of the 11-team grid next year.

The sport will undergo a major change in 2026 with major modifications being made to the aerodynamics and power units, threatening to cause a significant shake-up to the current pecking order.

Paddock rumours have suggested Mercedes' power unit is set to be the pick of the field and place it at the head of the pack.

With McLaren possessing the strongest package this year and also running the Mercedes unit, Collins believes the championship fight could end up between the two manufacturers. 

“Although we all believe the Mercedes engine is going to be the best next year, that engine is also in the McLaren,” Collins told Sky F1.

“I think the Mercedes-McLaren battle might be the big one next year.

“I don't really have anything that tells me Mercedes is definitely on top of that over McLaren when you see McLaren's car performance currently.

“Two drivers within a team that are pushing each other really hard in every session is what you need to develop a car and a new breed of regulation, and that will really help both Mercedes and McLaren.”

Mercedes will continue with its line-up of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli in 2026, with the latter having a full season of experience under his belt.

Collins believes Antonelli will be a vastly improved driver in his second season and will have the confidence to push the more experienced Russell.

“George will always feel he's got the upper hand in terms of experience within that team, at least,” she said.

“Mercedes are generally pretty even-handed with how they make decisions and how they go racing.

“Kimi having one full year under the belt, and getting over some of the disappointment of this year, some of the things that he struggled with, will definitely help.

“But he will be fit to push George. I think what's important for Mercedes is if both drivers are pushing each other, that is the best way to develop a car and that is the best way to get the best feedback.”