After the new aerodynamics regulations in 2022, Red Bull has trekked their way to the top. Verstappen’s dominance at the energy drink team is no joke. He wins every race more than 15 seconds ahead of the drivers. But with this newfound success, Mercedes has been dethroned. The Silver Arrows team was once known for its dominance during the turbo-hybrid engine era.
However, the failed attempt at winning back their throne has hurt no other than the seven-time World Champion himself. After his massive success in the sport, it could be a difficult process to see one’s downfall from their throne. But Hamilton has not lost any hope so far.
Although the new regulations for the 2026 engine might be a ticket back to the top, this season definitely is not one for the Mercedes team. Red Bull has not only gained the position from being the third best once to now dominating the sport. They have won 13 consecutive wins and all the races this season. Mercedes on the other hand, has been threading behind to get a simple podium.
With their power suddenly lost, they have announced to completely focus on their next year’s car. However, before Hamilton pleaded with FIA to have a tentative time for all teams to work on their car. But FIA rejected him brutally, but it seems things could turn around for Mercedes after all. According to Richard Bradley, the former 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, Mercedes could benefit from 2026 regulations.
Can Mercedes still beat Red Bull and claim back their throne?
Recently, the Le Mans winner sat down and mentioned how FIA might “target” Red Bull after all. With Honda leaving the Formula 1 scene, Red Bull will have no option but to partner with Ford for their engine. However, Ford has not been in F1 for a while and this might backfire completely.
For Red Bull to hold their position against these car companies such as Mercedes and Ferrari might get tough. Bradley said on the On Track GP podcast, “You can tell that they’re going to target Red Bull,”
“Then we’re going to find what makes Red Bull weak and try and exploit that. So there will come a time in the cycle when Red Bull will lose out and another manufacturer may come to the top. I think then that’s when you’re going to have to seriously reevaluate the situation.”
In other terms, just like Mercedes, Red Bull will have a moment of weakness that will dethrone them. However, this will serve as a good opportunity for Mercedes to make their way back to the top. But with the way things are, Mercedes has no chance of making it to the top until the 2026 regulations. Red Bull has been obliterating the sport with the 2023 Championship seemingly in their bag.