Red Bull's 2026 RB22 Livery Wins Over Fans with Glossy Ford-Inspired Design

Red Bull has officially pulled the covers off the RB22 livery for the 2026 season, generating significant buzz among the F1 faithful. The Milton Keynes squad, alongside its sister team Racing Bulls and partner Ford, launched the new design in Detroit, marking a dramatic departure from the understated matte finishes that have defined the team's recent championship-winning years.

Why it matters:

This aesthetic overhaul represents more than just a fresh coat of paint; it symbolizes the deepening integration of Ford into Red Bull's identity. By reverting to a gloss finish and incorporating vibrant Ford blue, the team is bridging the gap between its modern dominance and the iconic looks of the pre-hybrid era. This move aims to re-energize the brand image as they navigate the new regulations and defend their title.

The details:

• Visual Shift: The most immediate change is the return to a high-gloss finish, a stark contrast to the matte paint used for over a decade. The livery features a sophisticated jacquard pattern and pixelated race numbers, blending classic Red Bull branding with Ford’s signature blue accents.
• Fan Feedback: Social media reaction has been largely euphoric. Supporters on Reddit described the look as a "great balance" between the Sebastian Vettel championship years and the current era, with many praising the "glossy old school look."
• Comparisons: Fans noted the upgrade was particularly welcome when compared to Racing Bulls' minimal changes, highlighting Red Bull's effort to refresh its visual identity.
• Driver Verdict: Max Verstappen gave the design his stamp of approval, emphasizing the freshness of the look. "I like the shine, blue is my favourite colour," the reigning champion remarked, appreciating the updated outlines on the Red Bull logo.
• Critiques: Despite the praise, the pixelated numbers proved divisive, with some fans preferring traditional fonts, though the consensus remained that the overall execution was successful.

Looking ahead:

With the visual identity locked in, all eyes turn to the performance potential of the RB22. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the positive reception to the livery provides a morale boost ahead of what promises to be a highly competitive year on track.