Mercedes needs to optimize setup after upgrades introduced in Malaysia: the W17 is not yet the benchmark
The Brackley team introduced several upgrades at this event, bringing their first development package since the Canadian Grand Prix. Although the Malaysia updates received positive feedback, Mercedes must work on the setup to fully utilize the benefits.
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Race pace simulations during free practice at Sepang showed a high level of tyre degradation. Among the top teams, the W17 struggled the most to maintain consistent lap times. The team will need to intervene between Friday and Saturday to find the right configuration for the weekend.
Mercedes’ toughest Friday of the 2026 season so far
Track conditions, as confirmed by Pirelli, were worse than expected. Low grip levels and high track temperatures made life difficult for all drivers. Almost every team grappled with tyre degradation during long runs, which will be a key factor on Sunday.
Mercedes was no exception, despite the upgrades introduced in Malaysia: “Probably one of the toughest Fridays of the season so far. The competition level resembles more that of a place like Hungary than last weekend in Baku,” Bradley Lord told the media.
The new specifications on the car have increased overall downforce, but the team still needs to find the optimal setup: “Drivers gave positive feedback, feeling more downforce in high-speed corners and such. We need to ensure the car runs in the most comfortable way with this update. Tonight we’ll work hard to analyze data and make sure everything’s done properly.”
Watch out for Verstappen’s Red Bull in Malaysia
According to Mercedes, the four-time world champion showed extra pace in the first two sessions. The RB22 managed tyre wear better during race pace simulations at Sepang, leaving rivals chasing.
“Right now, Verstappen looks very fast, and McLaren’s race pace also seems strong, but you never know,” said George Russell. Red Bull’s competitiveness is confirmed by Hadjar finishing second in FP2, behind Charles Leclerc.
Deputy team principal Bradley Lord echoed Russell’s view: “Long runs look very close; probably Verstappen was best in both FP1 and FP2 using different tyres. But there’s a very tight battle behind him. We’re right in the middle and with some improvements, we can take a step forward.”
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Cover image credits: Francesca Anna Tantone for F1inGenerale