F1 testing ‘sources’ are having ominous ‘flashbacks’ after watching Mercedes’ first laps of 2026

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There has been a lot of talk for a long time about the potential of Mercedes’ 2026 F1 car and engine within the paddock.

This week, their rivals get to understand whether they are a true threat for the drivers’ championship, after a few years of being non-factors.

So far, they’ve started the 2026 F1 regulations on a strong note, churning out a solid number of laps during the first day of pre-season testing.

Now there is confirmation that the Mercedes engine is at least reliable, with the speed element to be confirmed a little later down the line when the wick gets turned up.

Describe Mercedes’ 2026 F1 livery in one word

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Mercedes’ W17 has a ‘groundbreaking’ detail, and it’s something that may boost their straight line speed over the course of the season.

Adrian Newey is ‘furious’ about Mercedes’ engine and a potential fuel ratio compression trick they’ve found that will generate some extra pace every lap. It’s a good sign for themselves.

READ MORE: Anthony Davidson tells Ferrari they’re missing something ‘brilliant’ Lewis Hamilton had at Mercedes

F1 testing ‘sources’ are already having ‘flashbacks’ to Mercedes’ 2014 performance

Martin Brundle thinks George Russell is eyeing a first title this season, if his team’s development can sustain such a charge.

There are likely to be significant changes between now and the end of the year, with a lot to be learned before Abu Dhabi.

Right now, though, it’s the Silver Arrows who are impressing the most, and ‘sources’ close to F1-Insider have been sharing an ominous verdict.

“Mercedes with two cars out on the track [on Monday], and that was indeed the case,” said Bianca Garloff. “The first thing that I also heard coming from the track, of course, we still have our sources reporting.

“Was that Mercedes from the outset, made the strongest, the best impression, and a number of observers immediately had a flashback to 2014, when the hybrid Formula 1 era began, and Mercedes dominated everything, leaving absolutely nothing behind.

“Incidentally, that was also the case at the first place that took place in Jerez.”

READ MORE: The FIA have sent a letter to Mercedes that may have ended Ferrari’s 2026 F1 title hopes

Why Mercedes can afford to be relaxed at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix

With Mercedes’ engine already proving its capabilities, they shouldn’t have as much to worry about as their rivals when it comes to the season-opener in Melbourne.

Those at Red Bull or Audi might be left wondering if they can make the end of the race if they have to turn their power units up.

But for Mercedes, they have loads of experience in this domain, and that will reflect on their decision-making throughout the weekend.

In turn, that probably helps reigning champions McLaren, too, who they supply engines to, making for a fascinating fight Down Under.