Mercedes boss Toto Wolff expects "evolution not revolution" as Formula 1 tweaks rules for Miami

Mercedes arrive in Miami as the dominant force after winning all three races so far this season in Australia, China and Japan, opening a 45 point lead over Ferrari in the constructors’ standings. Their drivers also hold the top two spots in the championship, with Kimi Antonelli leading on 72 points ahead of George Russell on 63.

“After a month without racing, we are ready to get back on track,” Wolff said as the 2026 Formula 1 championship resumes following a five week break. “We've used this break to analyse the opening races honestly, address our weaknesses and continue to raise our level. We've started the season well, but that counts for very little if you stand still.”

Antonelli, in his second season, has emerged as a standout performer with back to back wins in China and Japan from pole, while Russell claimed victory in the season opening race in Australia. The pair’s consistent one two finishes have underlined the early advantage of the Mercedes W17 under the new 2026 regulations.

Despite that form, Wolff warned the competitive order could tighten as rivals introduce upgrades after the enforced break: “We also know that our competitors will have used this time effectively to improve their packages and build a deeper understanding of their cars, so we expect the field to be closer in Miami. That's the reality of F1; it's a challenge we not only welcome but must rise to.”

Wolff also addressed the sport’s ongoing discussions around regulatory adjustments, which have followed concerns over racing quality under the new power unit era: “As a sport, we have also used this time to engage in constructive and open dialogue with all stakeholders.

“The regulatory tweaks are an evolution rather than a revolution, designed to build on the quality of racing we've seen so far while allowing the drivers to push to the limit. These changes respect the DNA of our sport and I'm confident they will contribute to an even stronger spectacle going forward," added Wolff.

The Miami weekend, held at the 5.412 km Miami International Autodrome around the Hard Rock Stadium, will feature the Sprint format once again. A single 90 minute practice session on Friday has been scheduled to help teams adapt to the long gap between races and recent technical changes.

The Brackley based team head into Round 4 this weekend in Miami as clear favourites, with momentum, reliability and a strong grasp of the new hybrid regulations placing them firmly at the front of the field. With two rising stars at the top of their game, Russell and Antonelli.