Max Verstappen strikes fear into Toto Wolff as Mercedes told to ‘get…read more
Max Verstappen has sent an early warning shot to the Formula 1 paddock after a commanding start to pre-season testing, prompting concern inside Mercedes and a direct call to action from team boss Toto Wolff to raise performance levels ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Coming into the new regulation cycle, Mercedes were widely viewed as one of the strongest contenders to lead the field. Much of that confidence stemmed from optimism surrounding their new power unit concept, with rival teams reportedly uneasy about a potential technical advantage. Discussions in the pit lane suggested Mercedes may have found a clever interpretation of the engine rules that could translate into a significant lap time gain, triggering complaints to the sport’s governing body, the FIA.
However, early running at the opening official pre-season test has painted a very different picture.
Track action at the Bahrain International Circuit saw Mercedes struggle to match the headline pace and consistency shown by Verstappen and Red Bull Racing. While testing times are never a perfect indicator of true competitiveness, the gap in both speed and mileage raised eyebrows across the paddock.
Verstappen delivered an especially assertive performance on the first day of running in Red Bull’s new challenger, setting the fastest time during the morning session and establishing a strong early benchmark. Although Lando Norris later ended the day at the top of the overall timesheets in the afternoon, Verstappen’s output remained the standout when factoring in total workload and consistency. The Dutch driver logged an impressive 136 laps, underlining both reliability and strong baseline pace from the Red Bull package.
Mercedes, by contrast, split driving duties between George Russell and young prospect Kimi Antonelli. Russell handled the morning programme and recorded a solid but unspectacular run, placing sixth fastest after completing 56 laps. Antonelli took over later in the day but managed only 30 laps and finished well down the order on the timing screens. The combined total was significantly lower than Verstappen’s single-driver tally, emphasizing a less productive opening day for the Silver Arrows.
This outcome contrasted sharply with Mercedes’ earlier private running in Barcelona, where the team completed around 500 laps in a shakedown test and drew praise from rivals for the apparent durability of their new car and engine package. That earlier showing had strengthened the belief that Mercedes were not only quick but also exceptionally well prepared. The Bahrain test, however, suggested that raw pace — at least for now — may not match those early expectations.
Following the day’s running, Wolff acknowledged the impact of Red Bull and Verstappen’s form, indicating that their performance had effectively set the early standard. He urged his squad to respond quickly and sharpen their execution, making it clear that the team could not afford complacency if they want to fight at the front under the new ruleset.
While testing results can be misleading due to different fuel loads, engine modes, and programme plans, the psychological effect of Verstappen’s strong start is undeniable. Red Bull appear immediately competitive, and their star driver has already demonstrated both speed and endurance. For Mercedes, the message is clear: if they are to live up to their pre-season billing, rapid progress will be required before the lights go out on the new era.
