What happened: Mercedes-AMG F1 turned its focus to the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Montmeló, marking the weekend with a special design collaboration with artist Juan Alcalá. The team welcomed the return to Spain with a 'Hola España' message ahead of the round.

Why it matters: The Spanish round is one of the calendar's long-standing form benchmarks, with the Barcelona circuit's mix of high-speed and technical corners exposing a car's true balance. A strong showing here carries weight as the 2026 European stretch intensifies.

What to watch: Watch for opening practice at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as Mercedes looks to gauge its pace against the field.