Toto Wolff Fires Back: Mercedes Engine Legality Under Attack as Rivals Scramble for Excuses Ahead of 2026 F1 Season
In a fierce showdown ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has unleashed a scathing critique on rival teams questioning the legality of the Silver Arrows’ new power unit. With the Australian Grand Prix looming on March 8, Wolff has had enough of the drama unfolding around Mercedes, telling competitors to “get your s*** together” instead of pointing fingers.
As the pre-season hype builds, reports have emerged that Ferrari, Honda, and Audi are expressing concerns that Mercedes and Red Bull, who are making waves with their own newly developed engines, may have uncovered a so-called loophole that gives them an unfair advantage. The controversy revolves around the compression ratio limits under the new regulations, which have been decreased from a previous 18.0 to 16.0, raising eyebrows among competitors who suspect foul play.
Wolff, however, remains steadfast in his confidence about the legality of Mercedes’ engine, stating, “I just don’t understand that some teams concentrate more on the others and keep arguing a case that is very clear and transparent.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on their own performance rather than getting entangled in baseless accusations. “Just doing secret meetings, sending secret letters, and trying to invent ways of testing that just don’t exist… maybe you want to find excuses before you even started,” he added.
Mercedes has reportedly completed an impressive 500 laps during their testing in Barcelona, a feat that showcases their readiness for the season. Wolff reiterated that the team is prioritizing self-improvement over distractions, asserting, “We are trying to minimize distractions and looking more at us than at everybody else.” He urged rivals to focus on their own preparations instead of concocting excuses for potential shortcomings.
The new regulations have spurred a rigorous testing schedule, with teams set to participate in two official pre-season tests in Bahrain before the season kicks off. These tests will take place from February 11-13 and 18-20, allowing teams to fine-tune their performance under the watchful eyes of the media.
As the tension mounts in the F1 paddock, Wolff is not backing down. He firmly declared, “The power unit is legal. The power unit corresponds to how the regulations are written.” With backing from the FIA, he remains resolute, stating, “Everything else I can’t judge upon. But that’s how we see the world today.”
With the stakes higher than ever, the battle lines are drawn as Mercedes gears up for the 2026 season. The pressure is on, and Wolff’s fiery remarks are sure to add fuel to the already heated competition. As fans eagerly await the first practice sessions in Melbourne, one thing is certain: the drama off the track is just getting started.








