Red Bull has made a big splash by unveiling its livery for the 2026 Formula 1 season, an announcement that is already making waves in the paddock. While the car itself is still awaited, the colors that will accompany Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar are now known, and they could redefine the aesthetic standards of the team.
A bold return to roots
The first thing that strikes with this new livery is its boldness. Red Bull, which has long opted for a matte paint, abandons this choice in favor of a glossy finish. The team’s iconic deep blue is still present, but it is complemented by a light blue, marking the official arrival of Ford in the adventure. This change is not just a matter of style: it symbolizes a turning point in the team’s history while remaining true to its roots.
For those who have followed Red Bull’s evolution, it is clear that this 2026 livery represents a break from its predecessors. Instead of the stiff appearance of recent years, this new look seems to bring a breath of fresh air, as if the team has decided to reinvent itself while respecting its DNA. The logos and numbers, for their part, nod to the past with a more classic design, evoking a welcome nostalgia.
The 2026 livery of Red Bull clearly stands out from its predecessors.
Enthusiastic drivers
At the Detroit event, the drivers had the opportunity to share their impressions of this new livery. Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, was candid in his comments: “First of all, everyone is very excited. The colors have changed a bit. It’s much better. I like that it’s shiny. Blue is my favorite color. I love the outline of the Red Bull logo. It’s back and it’s much fresher.”
For Verstappen, this change is not limited to aesthetics. He also mentioned the challenges ahead: “There are still quite a few unknowns with the engine, and the dimensions of the car have changed a bit. For us drivers, it will take some time to adapt. The test days will be important to get in laps and optimize as much as possible.” With this new livery, Red Bull seems ready to embark on a new chapter, and all eyes are on the upcoming RB22.
Isack Hadjar’s first impressions
As for Isack Hadjar, the young driver making his entry into the elite of motorsport under the Red Bull colors, he also shares a positive view of the new livery. “I love the front wing and the shiny side; during night races, it will really stand out.” An enthusiasm that reflects the importance of a good first impression in such a competitive environment as Formula 1.
Hadjar, arriving at a top team, knows that every detail counts. The livery is not just a simple embellishment, but an essential component of the team’s identity. In a sport where every millisecond can make a difference, the confidence and morale of the drivers are crucial.
A design that must prove itself on the track
Of course, all these aesthetic changes will remain mere embellishments if performance does not meet expectations. The real question is: how will this 2026 livery perform on the track? The preseason tests will be decisive in judging not only the capabilities of the car but also the psychological impact this new decoration may have on the drivers.
Showmanship and performance go hand in hand in Formula 1. The livery must inspire confidence, but it must also reflect the team’s ambitions. With increasingly fierce competition, particularly from teams like Ferrari and Mercedes, Red Bull will need to prove that its flashy aesthetics translate into performance on the asphalt.
Awaiting the first race
As the 2026 season looms on the horizon, Formula 1 fans can’t help but imagine what this new livery will bring to the circuit. For now, all eyes are on the tests and the first Grands Prix where the RB22 will have to defend its colors. Enthusiasts hope to see the magic happen and that this livery is not just a simple coat of paint on a car with forgotten performance.
To keep up with all the news in Formula 1 and the teams, feel free to check out our dedicated section on Formula 1. What does this promising season hold for us? The bets are open.
