Mercedes extend F1 winning streak in Miami despite rival upgrades

Kimi Antonelli secured a fourth consecutive Grand Prix victory for Mercedes in Miami, extending their unbeaten start to the 2026 Formula 1 season despite a major development push from rivals.

The sport returned to action following an enforced five-week break, marking the true beginning of an intense development war under the new era of regulations.

While the Silver Arrows maintained their Sunday dominance, an unusually long list of 64 new car parts across the grid drastically altered the competitive landscape.

Rivals close the gap with aggressive upgrades

Leading figures in the paddock had anticipated the Florida event would act as a complete reset for the championship hierarchy.

Ferrari introduced a grid-leading 11 new components, while both McLaren and Red Bull debuted seven major updates each.

In contrast, the Brackley-based championship leaders brought just two minor revisions to their hitherto-undefeated W16 car.

A much larger aerodynamic package for the current constructors’ champions is being held back for the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix.

McLaren strike back in sprint format

The sheer volume of new parts from the chasing pack immediately translated into a genuine threat to the early-season pacesetters.

Lando Norris ended the perfect qualifying streak of the factory team by seizing pole position for Friday’s Sprint session.

The British driver then led a dominant one-two finish alongside team-mate Oscar Piastri in Saturday’s shortened race.

Although the Italian race winner eventually restored order with his Sunday triumph, the flashes of speed from the chasing pack suggest a fiercely contested championship battle lies ahead.