5 Winners and 5 Losers from 2026 so far – who has started the season in style?

While Formula 1 teams tinker with their cars, power unit manufacturers refine their engines and drivers focus on getting a block of training in and some extra miles on the simulator in this unexpected gap in the calendar, Lawrence Barretto is using the pause for an extra dose of winners and losers. He looks back on the opening part of the season to see who needs this break to turn around their fortunes and who can't wait to get back to racing in Miami...

Winners: Mercedes

After failing to get to grips with the ground effect era cars, Mercedes were looking to turn the chapter with the new rules in 2026 – and on the evidence of the opening three Grands Prix of the season, they've absolutely nailed it.