Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team has successfully secured homologation for its fuel ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix as the Formula 1 2026 campaign prepares to begin.
During pre-season testing in Bahrain two weeks ago, reports suggested that Mercedes had not yet received full certification for its fuel specification for the new season. The fuel is supplied by long-time partner Petronas, which has worked with the Brackley-based team since its return to Formula 1 in 2010.
The homologation process for 2026 has proven more complex than in previous seasons due to the introduction of fully sustainable fuels under the new power unit regulations. As part of the major overhaul to the engine formula, all fuel suppliers must now meet stricter compliance standards set by the FIA.
Earlier reports indicated that Mercedes and its customer teams might have been forced to run a provisional fuel blend if final approval had not been granted in time for the opening race of the season.
However, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff previously downplayed the significance of those concerns, suggesting the situation would not impact the team’s readiness for the new campaign.
Those concerns now appear to have been resolved. It is understood that Mercedes has obtained the required compliance approval, allowing the Petronas fuel to be used without restriction during the Australian Grand Prix weekend in Melbourne.
In addition to its own works team, Mercedes supplies power units to several other teams on the Formula 1 grid. The manufacturer provides engines to reigning constructors’ champions McLaren F1 Team as well as Williams Racing and Alpine F1 Team.
Securing fuel homologation marks an important step for Mercedes ahead of the first race of the new Formula 1 era, where efficiency, energy management and sustainable fuel technologies will play a key role in overall performance.
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