Mercedes have unveiled digital images of their W17 car which will compete in the 2026 Formula One season.
Sporting the now familiar silver front nose and black rear colour scheme but this time with silver stripes on the sidepods, the W17 marks Mercedes’ first car under the new set of technical regulations, with George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli retained as the Silver Arrows’ drivers for this season.
Frederik Vesti will continue in his test and reserve role, whilst 2025 F1 Academy champion – Doriane Pin will step up to a Development Driver role.
“I’m very proud and grateful to take on the role of Development Driver with the team,” commented Doriane on her new role as she reflected on her progress on Mercedes’ Junior Programme.
“My two years as part of the Junior Programme have helped me grow as a driver and this is a fantastic next step in my career.
“I’m excited to keep working with everyone at Brackley and Brixworth and progressing toward future opportunities, both on and off track.”
CEO and Team Principal, Toto Wolff is confident that Mercedes are ready for the new technical regulations despite controversy over their compression ratio loophole, which will be debated between teams and FIA later today.
“Formula One will undergo significant change in 2026, and we are prepared for that transition. The new regulations demand innovation and absolute focus across every area of performance. Our work on the new car, and the long-term development of the Power Unit and advanced sustainable fuels with PETRONAS, reflects that approach.
“Releasing the first images of the W17 is simply the next step in that process. It represents the collective, sustained effort of our teams in Brixworth and Brackley. We will continue to push hard in the months ahead.”
Mercedes will run the W17 car for the first time at a private pre-season test in Barcelona, Spain, across 26 – 30 January, before a full season launch event takes place on Monday 2 February.
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