Mercedes to unleash the Wolf for the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka

"Unleashing the Beast this weekend in Suzuka," Mercedes trumpeted on social media when revealing their special livery for the third race of the 2026 F1 season after dominating the first two rounds in Melbourne and Shanghai.

"We have made a positive start to the season, but it is only that," Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said in his team's preview of the Japanese race. "In both Australia and China, we had several close calls that could have ended our weekend.

"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.

"The grid is also learning so much every time we take to the track. Each weekend brings a new set of challenges, and we are focused on completing our work and looking to improve.

"We know that the moment you think you've got this sport figured out, you are usually proven wrong," the Austrian warned.

He went on hailing the achievement of Kimi Antonelli, who became the youngest ever F1 driver to start a Grand Prix from pole, even converting that to a win at the age of 19.

Wolff said: "That is as true for Kimi as it is for the team. His win in China was a great achievement and a moment to be proud of. However, his focus and ours are on what is ahead.

"His first victory is a first step, and all that matters is how he builds on it. We will support him to navigate the expectations that come with performing at the front more consistently."

As for Japan, the Mercedes Team Principal said: "We're also 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."

Commenting on Mercedes' Suzuka livery, Wolff said: "We will be sporting an edgy look for this weekend's race.

"As a team, we continue to lead the way in blending our sport and wider culture, and that is reflected in our work with Y-3's legendary Japanese designer, Yohji Yamamoto.

"It is fitting that his collection will be seen on the team trackside, plus his designs on the drivers' overalls and helmets and on the W17 itself.

"It is a significant honour to partner on such a collaboration with Y-3, becoming only the third sports team after the Japanese national football team and Real Madrid to do so, and I'm sure it will prove to be an iconic one," he concluded.