While Red Bull struggles and Verstappen voices discontent, the 2026 Formula 1 season has seen unexpected stars rise and teams redefine expectations. From Mercedes dominance to Alpines resurgence, the first three rounds have reshaped the narrative, revealing who is thriving and who must urgently adapt.

Merciful Dominance and Newcomer Promise

Mercedes has re-emerged as F1s leading force, securing all three victories under the new technical regulations. Their seamless integration of chassis and power unit has not only restored their competitive edge but also raised questions about whether theyre even running at full potential.

They seem to have rediscovered the mojo they lost, said Hall of Fame journalist David Tremayne. Only Mercedes are currently superior.

Meanwhile, two new entrants are exceeding expectations. Audi, competing as a full works team for the first time in 2026, has quickly established itself in the upper midfield, while Cadillac, the sports 11th team, has earned respect for consistent finishes and rapid learning despite lacking raw pace.

Drivers Shining Through the Chaos

Kimi Antonelli has emerged as the breakout star of the season. At just 19, the Mercedes rookie leads the World Championship after two wins, silencing doubters and impressing peers with his composure and pace.

Hes smoother, calmer and very determined, said Tremayne. His success at 19 is a huge boost for F1.

Ollie Bearman has also been a revelation, delivering strong results with Haas and enhancing his case for a future Ferrari seat. Pierre Gasly, often underrated, has maximized Alpines potential, becoming the only driver to extract optimal results across all three races.

The Racing Revolution Delivers

Contrary to pre-season skepticism, the 2026 regulations have delivered remarkably close and exciting racing. Enhanced aerodynamics allow closer following, while the 50-50 power split and Overtake button have facilitated dramatic on-track action.

The closeness of the racing has surprised  and delighted, noted Tremayne. One hopes that it will continue.

Despite early concerns from drivers like Charles Leclerc, the on-track spectacle has been widely praised, with commentators lauding the visible progress even in the first stages of the new era.

Who Has Work to Do?

Aston Martin Honda faces the steepest climb. Once tipped as title contenders with Adrian Neweys design and Hondas recent success, the team sits at the back of the grid due to reliability issues and a chassis-Power Unit mismatch.

It all resembles a back of the grid effort from the 1990's, said Alex Jacques. This can't be how it ends for Fernando Alonso.

Williams, too, are in crisis. The FW48 is overweight and uncompetitive, leaving Alex Albon visibly frustrated. With Mercedes and Racing Bulls excelling with the same power unit, Red Bull must urgently resolve the RB22s handling issues.