Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Toto Wolff has revealed that the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team encountered several critical “close calls” behind its dominant start to the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The Brackley-based outfit has opened the campaign in commanding fashion, securing three front-row lockouts across the opening rounds in Australia and China, including the Shanghai Sprint, while also delivering consecutive one-two finishes in both Grands Prix. The only deviation came in the China Sprint, where George Russell claimed victory and Kimi Antonelli finished fifth, leaving the team having dropped just three points so far.
Despite these results, Wolff disclosed that the W17 has been operating on a narrow margin due to the complexity of the new-generation cars. Several incidents, including Antonelli’s FP3 crash in Melbourne, nearly compromised the team’s weekends, highlighting the fragility of the current technical package.
"We have made a positive start to the season, but it is only that. In both Australia and China, we had several close calls that could have ended our weekend," Wolff stated.
"These cars are new and fragile; we were fortunate that none of the issues we faced severely compromised our results. We have work to do to make sure that continues to be the case."
Wolff further emphasised that the learning curve under the new regulations remains steep for the entire grid, with each session presenting new variables. Maintaining operational discipline and extracting consistent performance will be essential as rivals close the gap.
"We know that the moment you think you've got this sport figured out, you are usually proven wrong."
"That is as true for Kimi as it is for the team. His win in China was a great achievement, but it is only a first step. What matters now is how he builds on it."
The Mercedes team principal also highlighted the importance of managing expectations around Antonelli, who has quickly emerged as a front-running contender. The focus remains on sustained development rather than short-term success, as pressure increases with consistent performances at the front.
Looking ahead to the Japanese Grand Prix, Wolff expressed cautious optimism. Suzuka’s technical nature and historically limited overtaking opportunities present a fresh challenge, although the new regulations could improve racing conditions.
"We're hopeful that the exciting racing we saw in Melbourne and Shanghai will continue in Japan."
"Suzuka is one of the world's great race tracks, but it has, in recent years, been a difficult place to overtake. Hopefully, under these new regulations, we can put on a good show for the fans."
As Mercedes balances dominant performance with underlying technical risks, the upcoming Suzuka weekend will serve as a key test of its ability to sustain results while improving reliability. The early phase of the 2026 season has established a strong foundation, but the margin for error remains minimal in an evolving competitive landscape.
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