Mercedes are approaching the new F1 2026 engine rules with a confidence reminiscent of the team’s 2014 rise. 

Mercedes F1 2026 confidence reminiscent of 2014 rise

Asked if Mercedes’ focus will fully be on F1 2026 this year, Kravitz told the Sky F1 podcast: “I think so.

A report by the Times last October claimed that Verstappen’s exit clause will allow him to walk away from Red Bull if he is lower than third in the Drivers’ standings after a “significant” portion of the F1 2025 season has been completed.

He told Sky Germany: “The best driver wants to have the best car. And that’s our job, to bring the best package together.

Appearing on the Formula For Success podcast last summer, former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan claimed that Wolff and Kallenius – as well as Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of one-third Mercedes owner INEOS – met in Monaco earlier this year to prepare a “fighting fund” to cover Verstappen’s salary in anticipation of the Dutchman’s arrival.