Red Bull Unveils RB22 Renders: First Look at 2026 Contender

Red Bull has released the first renders of its RB22, offering a preliminary glimpse into the design philosophy for the 2026 season. Unveiled alongside the new livery in Detroit, the initial images showcase a push-rod suspension layout and distinct aerodynamic features, though the team expects significant evolution before the car hits the track.

Why it matters:

With the 2026 regulations bringing a major aerodynamic shift, Red Bull's early design choices provide the first indication of how the top teams are interpreting the new rules. The return to push-rod suspension and the aggressive nose concept suggest a focus on optimizing airflow management, setting the technical baseline for the upcoming championship battle.

The details:

• Suspension Layout: The RB22 adopts a push-rod layout at both the front and rear, a choice expected to be common across the grid under the new regulations.
• Nose & Front Wing: The nose cone features a narrow, arrow-shaped cross-section supported by two small pillars. While the flap profiles are not final, the endplates are bent inward yet include external winglets designed to generate outwash.
• Sidepod Design: The sidepods appear to be a miniaturized version of the RB21, featuring a steep upper profile and a deep undercut. This sculpting helps channel significant airflow beneath the bodywork to cool the mechanical components.
• Floor & Engine Cover: The floor design closely resembles the 2021 spec, utilizing a series of slits ahead of the rear wheels to create a pneumatic seal. The engine cover is tightly wrapped, extending into a megaphone shape with a horizontal air vent.
• Cooling Intakes: The car retains the letterbox-style radiator inlets and introduces a three-section ovoid air intake to separate air supply for the engine from cooling for electrical components and ERS heat exchangers.

What's next:

These renders serve as a realistic baseline rather than a definitive final product. With three pre-season tests scheduled, the RB22 is likely to undergo major aerodynamic and mechanical upgrades ahead of its track debut in Barcelona. The current design highlights how aerodynamic principles from previous generations are being revisited, offering a solid foundation for progressive development throughout the season.