Carlos Sainz has spoken about his confidence for a positive 2026 Formula 1 season through the progress made by Mercedes’ engine.
The German marque has been a longstanding favourite for next year, which sees the start of the most radical set of technical regulations in the sport’s history.
Early indications have touted Mercedes’ powertrains division as having produced the most promising power unit out of all the other OEMs on the grid.
This, if it comes to fruition, will give the works team, as well as its customers [McLaren, Williams and Alpine] a significant chance of being competitive.
Sainz, in an interview with El Partidazo de COPE, revealed that faith in Mercedes and its supposed progress for 2026 was partly a reason why he chose to join Williams this year.
“Yes, I have a lot of confidence in the Mercedes engine,” he said.
“It’s actually one of the main reasons I chose Williams for this new regulation change. I knew we’d be running the Mercedes power unit, and everything I’ve heard about it has been positive, and still is.”
Mercedes has already got a breadth of customers, with its engine currently powering McLaren towards what is likely to be a Drivers’ Championship as well as the Constructors, which it retained in Singapore last week.
And Alpine is now coming in with Aston Martin departing for Honda, which is making its return to F1 after four seasons out of the sport.
Sainz acknowledged that there could be a breadth of competition within the gaggle of teams, and was wary to not discount Honda’s competitiveness, as well as Ferrari.
“But of course, we can’t forget that Mercedes will have the Mercedes engine, McLaren will have it, Alpine will have it, and so will Williams,” he added.
“That’s already four teams, eight cars, with the same engine, and two of those teams, especially McLaren, are superior right now.
“So, no matter how good the engine is, you still need to get everything right with the chassis. And of course, Aston Martin with Honda will be competitive, and Ferrari will always be there. Ferrari are always in the fight.”
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