Red Bull Unveils Glossy 2026 Livery Alongside Ford in Detroit

Red Bull has officially pulled the covers off the RB22, revealing a high-gloss livery that marks a stark visual shift for the 2026 season. Unveiled in Detroit alongside partner Ford, the new design ditches the recent matte finishes for a sleek, white-based aesthetic that pays homage to the team's early 2000s identity.

Why it matters:

This launch signifies more than just a fresh coat of paint; it represents Red Bull's transformation into a full-fledged manufacturer. Partnering with Ford for the new engine regulations, the team is embarking on a new chapter as it designs and builds its own power units for the first time in two decades.

The details:

• Visual Shift: The car features a high-gloss finish intended to sharpen reflections and boost contrast, making the Red Bull logos "pop" with stronger color saturation and cleaner edges.
• Theatrical Reveal: True to form, Red Bull utilized a stunt plane piloted by athlete Martin Sonka to rip the cover off the showcar in Ford's hometown of Detroit.
• New Era: This is the first season under the leadership of Team Principal Laurent Mekies and the debut of Red Bull Powertrains' own engine developed in conjunction with Ford.

What's next:

The RB22 will hit the track later this month for its first on-track appearance. The paddock will be watching closely to see if the team's new manufacturer status and revamped visual identity translate into competitive performance under the complex 2026 regulations.