Safari useless since updating to Tahoe 26.0.1

Those instructions should work, but if you installed Google on your Mac there is a possibility one or more of its system-altering components is doing something to interfere with Safari.

Installing Chrome also brings the entirety of Google's invasive system modifications that are completely and unnecessary to its Chrome browser component. Try completely uninstalling it, making sure all Google's components are completely and thoroughly eradicated, and then repeat the steps described in If Safari doesn't open a page or work as expected on Mac - Apple Support.

Should the behavior continue, the next step is to download and run EtreCheck. Unlike Google and things like it, EtreCheck does not require an installation procedure nor does it require a complimentary uninstallation procedure. Just download it, run it, copy its report, and post it here. For illustrated instructions refer to How to use the Add Text Feature When Posting Large Amounts of Text, i.e. an Etrecheck Report - Apple Community.

Review all these suggestions: If Safari doesn't open a page or work as expected on Mac - Apple Support

Be sure to follow all those steps. Don't omit any, even if they appear to be inapplicable or trivial. Write back with your observations.

I understand that macOS upgrade has rendered Safari useless on your MacBook Pro. Can you elaborate?

Perhaps if you were to describe your concern in greater detail, someone may be able to assist you.