Mercedes is set to become the latest Formula 1 team to reveal its 2026 car livery during a highly anticipated launch event on Monday. This follows a series of unveilings from competitors including Red Bull, Haas, Audi, Ferrari, and Alpine, all showcasing their designs ahead of the new season.
Event Details and Viewing Information
The Mercedes launch event is scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, commencing at 11:30am GMT. Drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will both be in attendance for this online presentation, which promises to offer fans an exclusive first look at the team's new challenger.
How to Watch the Live Stream
The entire reveal will be broadcast live on the official Mercedes F1 website. Viewers can expect a comprehensive programme featuring a panel discussion with team principal Toto Wolff, alongside drivers Russell and Antonelli, and reserve driver Frederik Vesti.
Following the initial presentation, the stream will include a detailed walkthrough of the new 2026 technical regulations. Key members of the Mercedes technical leadership team will explain the innovations and design philosophies behind the W17 car.
The Independent will also provide live text coverage for those seeking minute-by-minute updates and analysis throughout the event.
Team Ambitions and Historical Context
Anticipation is particularly high within the Mercedes camp, as George Russell has openly expressed his ambition to secure a first world championship this year. The 2026 season represents a radical regulatory shake-up for the sport, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for all teams.
Mercedes' historical success in mastering previous regulation changes, most notably with their dominant power unit launch in 2014, fuels optimism that they can once again excel under the new rules. The team's performance in the recent private pre-season test in Barcelona, where they were reported as the standout performers, has only heightened expectations.
Pre-Season Testing Schedule
The launch event precedes a critical phase of pre-season testing. After the Barcelona shakedown, teams will head to Bahrain for two official three-day tests:
- The first test is scheduled for 11-13 February.
- The second test follows on 18-20 February.
These sessions will provide the first true competitive benchmark for the new cars before the racing begins.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
The 2026 F1 World Championship is set to commence with the Australian Grand Prix on 8 March. With new regulations aiming to level the playing field and promote closer racing, all eyes will be on Mercedes to see if their launch is merely a stylish presentation or the first glimpse of another championship-contending machine.
The combination of an experienced Russell and the highly-rated rookie Kimi Antonelli creates an intriguing driver line-up for the Silver Arrows, adding another layer of narrative to this pivotal season launch.
