Red Bull christens first power unit 'DM01' in tribute to Dietrich Mateschitz

Red Bull has officially named its first independent power unit the "DM01," honoring the vision of late founder Dietrich Mateschitz. This engine marks a new era for the team as they transition from Honda to their own in-house manufacturing with technical partner Ford for the 2026 season.

Why it matters:

Mateschitz's decision to pursue total independence—building both chassis and power units—was a bold gamble that defined the team's trajectory. Naming the debut engine after him cements his legacy and serves as a constant reminder of the fearless approach required to succeed at the pinnacle of motorsport.

The details:

• Tribute: Team boss Laurent Mekies confirmed the "DM01" name, stating it reflects Mateschitz's vision and the "Red Bull spirit" that drives the team.
• Historic Context: Mateschitz purchased the Jaguar team in 2004, transforming it into a championship-winning powerhouse with six drivers' and four constructors' titles before his death in October 2022.
• Technical Evolution: Red Bull Powertrains was formed in 2021 to manage Honda engines after the manufacturer's withdrawal, eventually pivoting to a full in-house build for the new regulations.
• Scope: The new units will power both Red Bull and its sister team, RB, as the team aims to maintain its competitive edge without manufacturer reliance.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to performance and reliability. The team hopes the "DM01" will not only pay tribute to their founder but also deliver the results needed to keep Red Bull at the front of the grid when the new regulations begin.