Mercedes runs split aero specifications at Singapore

Mercedes has committed to an unusual plan for the Singapore Grand Prix by running its two W17s with completely different aerodynamic packages during the Sprint weekend. The team is splitting specifications between its drivers rather than using the same setup on both cars.

Toto Wolff said George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are effectively acting as "two test pilots" as Mercedes evaluates the two configurations. According to the reports, Antonelli is continuing with the newer update package, while Russell has gone back to an older specification.

The approach comes as Mercedes, which has won 11 of the first 16 grands prix in 2026, looks to assess its package after Red Bull and Max Verstappen won at Sepang last time out. Mercedes has also said it has already drawn early learnings from the Singapore experiment.