Mercedes predict significant loss for start of new F1 season

Mercedes technical director James Allison expects Formula 1 cars to lose significant downforce heading into the 2027 season due to revised FIA regulations. The rule changes introduce shallower rear wings, stricter front-floor design limits, and a ban on exhaust-area winglets. Speaking on Mercedes' Nu Silver Arrows Podcast, Allison noted that the FIA aims to reset downforce levels back to the start of the 2026 era.

In addition to aerodynamic curbs, power unit regulations will shift the combustion-to-electric power split to 58:42 for 2027, along with raising fuel energy flow limits by five percent. Allison labeled these engine adjustments as far more than minor tweaks. Meanwhile, Mercedes secured their first title double since 2020 after Kimi Antonelli won the drivers' championship in Mexico and the team clinched the constructors' crown in São Paulo.