08/08/2025 12:55
F1 legend Nigel Mansell has backed Mercedes to develop a "fantastic
package" for the new power unit regulations next season, a change
he has deemed as "worrying". For 2026, F1 will switch to a 50/50
split between internal combustion and electrical energy, creating a
major challenge for all the manufacturers. It is F1's biggest step
yet towards electrification, with some concerns having been raised
in the paddock over the amount of energy management which will be
required. Given the magnitude of the change, predicting the
pecking order for 2026 is impossible, to the extent that Mansell
believes a "crystal ball" is required. "It's an incredible
question and if you've got a crystal ball, you can make a lot of
money," Mansell told Aceodds , discussing who could be quickest
next season. "To throw so many regulations for 2026, nobody will
know what's in store. I think Max [Verstappen] said it the best,
until you turn up for the first race in Australia, no one will
really know who's got the best package." Despite the unknown
heading into next year, Mercedes has been backed by most of the
paddock and Mansell to be highly competitive. The Silver Arrows
were phenomenal when the turbo-hybrid era was introduced in 2014,
leading it to a lengthy period of dominance. Mansell expects
Mercedes to come out of the blocks firing once again, but has also
backed Aston Martin to start strong following the arrival of Adrian
Newey. "One thing we do know is that Mercedes will have a fantastic
package with the engine and the power pack-side," added Mansell.
"The engine's going to provide 50% of the power and the other, 50%
of the [electrical] power." "It's a tall order. Big changes for one
year, like there's no tomorrow. And you can throw in Adrian Newey
in there with Aston Martin. They can come out of the box really
strong." "Ferrari, who knows? If they get the formula right? Any
team that can get the formula right can dominate in the first year.
It's fascinating. A little bit worrying, but fascinating."
