Mercedes unveils updates for the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix

Mercedes has unveiled its modifications for Formula 1's Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, featuring a significantly redesigned floor and sidepods as it aims to enhance its dominance in both 2026 championships.

The W17 has been leading the pack thus far in 2026, although it has encountered challenges from Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull intermittently during the season.

Despite none of these teams mounting a serious effort to contest Mercedes and its drivers in either the drivers' or constructors' standings, the Silver Arrows remain eager to continue their development.

The updates to the floor focus on the floor board, leading edge, rear corner, and the main underbody region - including the diffuser area, while revisions have also been made to the rear section of the sidepod bodywork.

In this update, Mercedes has shifted from the undercut sidepod design used since the beginning of the season - which has been adopted by other teams - to a ramped profile. 

The team has also revamped the rear suspension fairings and the winglets integrated within the rear wheel drums to further enhance the modifications to the floor and sidepod bodywork, as it seeks to boost rear-end downforce around the car.

This marks Mercedes' first major update package since the Canadian Grand Prix in May; the team chose to postpone its car development ahead of 2026 to incorporate as many of its winter advancements as possible.

This strategy ensured the W17 was a step ahead of its competitors at the season's outset, but it left the team with fewer components ready for the early races. 

"We believe it's a positive step, especially considering how long it has been since our last upgrade," commented George Russell, who secured a victory for the team last time out in Baku, reducing the gap to Kimi Antonelli in the drivers' championship to 66 points. 

"It's rather unusual to have an upgrade in May and then wait until almost October for another. So as a singular upgrade step, it's substantial, but in a typical season, it would be considered a standard progression from a May to an October update package. 

"I'm optimistic that it will propel us back to the front on circuits like these, which have posed more difficulties for us in the past six races."

Mercedes will compete in Malaysia featuring a teal and black livery to honor its title partner Petronas, Malaysia's national oil company and the official fuel provider for all Mercedes-powered teams on the grid. 

Photos from F1 Bahrain GP in Malaysia- Friday

Share Or Save This Story