Mercedes confirms upgraded aero package for both cars at COTA
Mercedes will equip both W17 cars with the aerodynamic package first introduced at Sepang for the United States Grand Prix. The decision follows a split-spec test in Singapore that yielded useful data on setup and balance. The team aims to gather more information ahead of 2027 development.
Mercedes plans full-spec run at COTA
Mercedes will run its upgraded aerodynamic package on both cars at the United States Grand Prix in Austin. The package debuted at Sepang and appeared on one car during a split-spec weekend in Singapore. [1]
The team introduced the updates, which focus on the floor and rear of the W17, at the Malaysian round. [3] Mercedes split specifications in Singapore so that Kimi Antonelli ran the newer version while George Russell used the older one. [4]
Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin noted that Antonelli's package proved faster by the end of the Singapore weekend. Team principal Toto Wolff stated that the current plan is to use the new version in Austin. [1]
Data focus for 2027
The decision prioritizes learning over immediate performance gains. Wolff indicated that the new car requires a different setup philosophy. [2]
Related reading
- [1]Mercedes leans towards upgrade for both cars in Austin (motorsport.com). Accessed 2026-10-13.
- [2]Toto Wolff: Here's what happens next following problems with the Mercedes F1 upgrade (speedweek.com). Accessed 2026-10-13.
- [3]F1TECH: Things to know about Mercedes' major W17 upgrade package (f1technical.net). Accessed 2026-10-13.
- [4]Mercedes drivers George Russell, Kimi Antonelli to split car packages at Singapore GP (skysports.com). Accessed 2026-10-13.