Why Mercedes’ ‘fundamental’ F1 start issue won’t be an easy fix

Mercedes says it has found the root of its race-start problem, but the fix is not going to be a simple software tweak.

Kimi Antonelli said in Miami that the team seems to have identified the issue and is working on a solution, but one that is "not a simple fix." He said it involves a decent change to the clutch paddle and some adjustment to hand position.

That matters because Mercedes has already made starts a priority after a series of poor opening laps. Earlier reporting showed the team had been studying its launch performance behind the scenes for weeks.

The problem also fits the wider 2026 Formula 1 context, where starts have become more difficult under the new procedures. In other words, Mercedes is not just chasing a one-off setup change; it may need to alter how its drivers operate the car off the line.

The latest comments suggest the team has narrowed down the issue, but not eliminated the challenge. If the cure affects driver input, Mercedes will need to balance speed, consistency and repeatability before it can expect a clean fix.

For now, the takeaway is straightforward: Mercedes believes it understands the issue, but solving it quickly is another matter.