Red Bull Unveils RB22: Retro Blue Livery for Verstappen’s 2026 F1 Season
Red Bull Racing has launched its retro-inspired RB22 livery for the 2026 Formula 1 season during an event in Detroit. This marks a significant milestone as the team embarks on a new chapter in their history.
Red Bull’s New Era and Engine Development
In collaboration with Ford, Red Bull will be manufacturing its own engines for the first time. This major shift coincides with new regulations for both power units and chassis set to reshape Formula 1.
- Date of Launch: Thursday night in Detroit
- First Race: Australian Grand Prix, March 6-8, 2026
Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar
Max Verstappen attended the launch event, preparing for a strong comeback after losing the drivers’ title to Lando Norris last year. The team has also promoted Isack Hadjar, a 21-year-old French driver, to join Verstappen following a strong season with the junior team, Racing Bulls.
The RB22 Livery
The RB22’s livery is a return to the team’s classic blue gloss finish first seen in 2005. This design choice acknowledges Red Bull’s heritage while adapting to modern racing.
- Design Elements:
- Sharper reflections
- Increased contrast under lights
- Themes inspired by the team’s original F1 aesthetics
Challenges Ahead for the Team
Laurent Mekies, the new team principal, acknowledged the difficulties of the upcoming season. He expects the team to initially struggle as they adapt to their new engine production process.
With the departure of Christian Horner and Dr. Helmut Marko—key figures in Red Bull’s success—this season will feature a different leadership dynamic. Mekies expressed confidence in the team’s capabilities despite the anticipated challenges.
Pre-Season Testing Schedule
As teams prepare for the 2026 season, they have scheduled three separate testing events:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Barcelona (Closed Doors) | January 26-30 |
| Bahrain Test 1 | February 11-13 |
| Bahrain Test 2 | February 18-20 |
With a robust development rate expected, Red Bull aims to make strides throughout the season despite the unknowns that lie ahead. Their journey into this new era of Formula 1 holds promise as they work to establish themselves among the competition.
