Mercedes confirms ‘first update package of the year’ for F1 Canadian GP
Originally published by Motorsportweek
Mercedes has confirmed it will debut its first major upgrade package for its W17 at this weekend’s Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix.
Mercedes has won all Grand Prix to date in 2026, barring Lando Norris’ Sprint Race win last time out in Miami.
Opting not to bring many upgrades for the W17 in Miami, this placed Mercedes in a potentially difficult position.
A resurgent McLaren challenged the Silver Arrows in the Sunshine State, an overhauled MCL40 closing the gap to the runaway leaders dramatically.
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Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed that the team will bring a substantial upgrade package to Canada, with the details to be released ahead of the race.
“Our competitors took a step forward in Miami and we need to respond; seven Grands Prix in 10 weekends before shutdown is an opportunity to do that and build momentum,” Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said.
“We bring our first update package of the year to Montreal, but we know that performance is only performance once it is delivered on track.”
Mercedes keeping a level headed mindset
Wolff confirmed that the team will continue to be level headed despite its success, with Kimi Antonelli 20 points clear of teammate George Russell at the top of the standings.
“Despite being in the middle of May, we are just four races into the season. There is a long year ahead and, whilst this is an important weekend, it will not decide any outcomes.
“We will stay balanced, keep learning, and execute each weekend as well as we can. We won’t get too high when we succeed or too low in the difficult moments; that is as true for our drivers as it is for the rest of the team.”
Mercedes faces a crunch weekend in Canada, if its upgrades fail to move it clear of rivals once again, then its position at the top of F1’s pecking order will be under serious threat.