Mercedes technical director James Allison recently spoke about the team’s preparations for Formula 1’s next major engine overhaul in 2026. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, Allison drew parallels between the current situation and the lead-up to the sport’s last significant change in 2014.
In 2014, Formula 1 introduced a new generation of power units, marking the beginning of the hybrid era. These power units combined a V6 internal combustion engine with energy recovery systems, significantly altering the dynamics of the sport. Mercedes emerged as the dominant force during this period, winning eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships.
James Allison on the progress of the 2026 power unit:
"I wasn't in the team in the run-up to 2014 when the new generation of power units were being concocted and the enormous push to make them a reality was taking place."
"But those of us in the team who were, tell me that the… pic.twitter.com/QztRQyj6hF
— F1_MercHub (@F1MercHub) May 21, 2024
Fast forward to 2026, and the sport is gearing up for another major reset. The existing V6 engines will undergo substantial changes, including increased electrical output and sustainability measures. Teams are investing heavily in their power unit projects to gain a competitive edge.
James Allison, who joined Mercedes in 2017 after a successful stint at Ferrari, shed light on the team’s progress with their 2026 power unit. He acknowledged that he wasn’t part of the team during the 2014 preparations but emphasized that the feeling within the team is remarkably similar.
“There is a massive shove going on in HPP (Mercedes High Performance Powertrains) to make a success of that,” Allison explained. “This new power unit will set the course for anyone fortunate enough to have it in the back of their car for several seasons to come.”
Carlos Sainz and Mercedes: The Contract Conundrum
Carlos Sainz, the talented Spanish driver, finds himself at a crossroads in his Formula 1 career. After a successful stint with Ferrari, he faces uncertainty as his contract with the Scuderia comes to an end. Meanwhile, Mercedes, the dominant force in recent years, has a vacant seat for the 2025 season. But negotiations between Sainz and the Silver Arrows have hit a snag.
🚨 Corriere dello Sport (pictured) reports Carlos Sainz has signed a deal with Mercedes for 2025, while @FUnoAT also report Mercedes have offered Sainz a 1+1 year deal 👀 pic.twitter.com/56j0cDIFsI
— Mercedes-AMG F1 News (@MercedesNewsUK) April 12, 2024
