Will Mercedes remain unbeatable for entire 2026 campaign?

Mercedes have roared out of the blocks in 2026, sweeping to three consecutive victories and establishing a commanding 45-point lead over Ferrari in the constructors' championship. 

With the Silver Arrows sitting on 135 points compared to Ferrari's 90 and McLaren's distant 46, the question now dominating the paddock is whether anyone can haul them back.

The early evidence suggests Mercedes have cracked the new technical regulations with impressive authority. George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have shared pole positions and victories across Australia, China and Japan, with the W17 demonstrating superior energy management under the overhauled hybrid rules.

Ferrari, despite trailing by 45 points, remain the most credible challengers. Charles Leclerc led in Australia before a strategic misstep under the virtual safety car cost the Scuderia track position, whilst the SF-26 has shown genuine pace at times. 

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff admitted after the Melbourne opener that "we have a fight on our hands with Ferrari," acknowledging that the red cars were closer than expected during the race.

Ferrari's prospects may hinge on upcoming regulatory changes. Mercedes are believed to have exploited a compression ratio loophole worth approximately 0.2 seconds per lap, but that advantage expires at Monaco on 1 June. 

Beyond that, Ferrari's superior wind tunnel allocation, 85% compared to Mercedes' 75%, could prove decisive in the development race ahead.

After two disappointing rounds, McLaren bounced back impressively in Japan with Oscar Piastri securing a podium after leading the early stages of the race. As for Red Bull, the Austrian outfit is facing big challenges with its RB22.

Crucially, all of Mercedes' major rivals are expected to bring big upgrades to the Miami Grand Prix, but can anyone catch the German manufacturer?

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