Toto Wolff has admitted he is wary of potential “political knives” from rival teams, as Mercedes’ strong start to the 2026 Formula 1 season continues to draw attention across the paddock.
The Silver Arrows have emerged as the early benchmark under the sport’s new regulations, raising questions from competitors and increasing scrutiny over their performance advantage.
“We have a good car, at this stage, that is capable of winning. Let’s see what kind of political knives are going to come out in the next few weeks and months. But at the moment it’s a car that is capable of winning,” said Wolff.
Leclerc on gap to Mercedes
31 points behind Mercedes is Ferrari, who have been second best so far in the 2026 F1 season.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc described the “big gap” to Mercedes as “disappointing.”
“Mercedes are very strong in general. Then again, I said it multiple times that this year will all be about development, but the Mercedes is extremely strong,” he said.
“They are, for sure, the big favourites. If we manage to turn that situation around, it will be very impressive.”
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Mercedes v Ferrari
The opening two rounds of the 2026 season have underlined Mercedes’ early dominance, with strong results in both Australia and China establishing them as the team to beat.
In Melbourne, the Silver Arrows showed immediate pace under the new regulations, converting performance into a statement one-two result that set the tone for the season.
That momentum carried into Shanghai, where they once again delivered a one-two finish, extending their advantage at the top of the standings.
For Ferrari, the response has been solid but not yet enough to challenge consistently at the very front.
Despite flying race starts and strong pace, they have yet to match the strength of the Brackley-based team.
Leclerc’s comments highlight that reality, with the Monegasque driver openly acknowledging the scale of the task ahead if Ferrari are to close the gap.
Suzuka challenges
The focus now shifts to Suzuka, a circuit that presents a very different challenge.
With its high-speed corners and technical demands, it offers another opportunity for Ferrari to test both their car and their development direction against the current benchmark.
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SportJustSport writers 
Aidan Leo