Vesti Logs 1,000 Sim Laps During Break as Mercedes Dominates 2026

Mercedes reserve driver Fred Vesti revealed he completed nearly 1,000 laps on the team's simulator during the unexpected five-week break between the Japanese and Miami Grands Prix. The intensive preparation highlights the Brackley outfit's relentless pursuit of perfection in a season where it has won all four Grands Prix.

Why it matters:

The extended break gave teams a rare mid-season reset. For Mercedes, already dominant with four consecutive wins, the sim work ensures continued edge as they eye upgrades for the Canadian Grand Prix.

The details:

• Vesti said: "Closer to a thousand laps before Miami. And also, after. I flew straight back here to Brackley, straight back into the sim."
• He praised Miami's growth: "I was amazed at how cool the event was … the show is quite cool. The race itself was probably the best one so far this year in terms of close racing."
• Mercedes is planning major upgrades for Canada, unlike many rivals who brought upgrades to Miami.
• Kimi Antonelli has claimed three consecutive wins (China, Japan, Miami) and leads George Russell by 20 points in the championship.

By the numbers:

• 1,000 – Approximate simulator laps by Vesti during the break.
• 4 – Wins from four races for Mercedes in 2026.
• 20 – Points lead for Antonelli over Russell.

What's next:

The Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve (22-24 May) will be the first true test of Mercedes' upgrade package. If the sim work translates to track performance, the Silver Arrows could extend their dominant streak further.