On Thursday night at Michigan Central Headquarters in Detroit, Red Bull introduced its 2026 Formula 1 liveries, marking a new chapter as the team prepares to use Ford powertrains after ending its partnership with Honda in 2025. During the event hosted by engine partner Ford, Max Verstappen Red Bull 2026 branding was brought into the spotlight with a striking new design and a bold joke from Verstappen himself, capturing everyone’s attention.
Introducing Red Bull’s New Livery and Team Kit for 2026
The 2026 season will be the first with Ford engines powering Red Bull and its sister team, Racing Bulls. The new livery features a glossy finish heavily influenced by the era when Sebastian Vettel raced for the team, highlighting a shift toward a predominantly blue color scheme. This color update extends to the team’s uniforms, offering a fresh and cohesive look as part of a comprehensive branding refresh.
Before the official reveal of the new livery, Verstappen was asked about his thoughts on the team’s transition to Ford powertrains. He responded by noting the visible changes in the colors of his overalls, signaling excitement about this fresh direction. When prompted by American sports journalist Nicole Briscoe to showcase the new team kit, Verstappen obliged with a humorous twist.
“First of all, you know, everyone is very excited and I am as well. As you can see, yeah, the colors have changed a little bit,” Max Verstappen, four-time F1 champion
“You wanna see my a**?” Max Verstappen, four-time F1 champion
The audience erupted with laughter at Verstappen’s cheeky comment, provoking smiles from team principal Laurent Mekies and Verstappen’s new teammate Isack Hadjar. This lighthearted moment underscored the confident and playful spirit within the team as they step into a new era.
Adjusting to the Unknown: Verstappen on the 2026 Technical Changes
Verstappen reflected on the challenges and uncertainties expected in 2026 as Red Bull adapts to Ford engines and broader changes to Formula 1’s technical regulations. Since 2018, Red Bull has raced with Honda powertrains, securing four drivers’ championships and two constructors’ titles during that time. The shift to Ford introduces new dimensions to both the car’s design and performance, requiring adjustments from the drivers.
When asked about the impact of these changes beyond the fresh livery, Verstappen explained that many details remain uncertain, and adapting to the altered engine and car size will take time. He emphasized the importance of testing to gain vital experience ahead of the season.
“It’s all still a bit unknown. It’s a very big change with the engine, the dimension of the car has changed. For the drivers, it will take a bit of time to adjust, and that’s why it’s very important during the test days that we are getting our laps in,” Max Verstappen, four-time F1 champion
Red Bull’s Early Reveal and Upcoming Preseason Preparations
Red Bull was the first team to unveil its 2026 livery, setting the stage ahead of the first official shakedown scheduled in Barcelona from January 26 to 30. These initial tests will be crucial for teams to evaluate key components and setups under the new regulations. Following that, the official preseason tests are planned for Bahrain in February, where teams will continue their preparations before the new season kicks off.
Unveiling the new car involved a dramatic presentation, including a fighter plane retracting a cover mid-flight, enhancing the spectacle for fans and attendees at the event. The actual car’s reveal on stage attracted strong enthusiasm and signaled Red Bull’s bold entry into the evolving Formula 1 landscape as they partner with Ford and embrace a fresh technical era.
This unveiling not only reflects the team’s confidence in tackling forthcoming challenges but also highlights their determination to maintain competitive momentum in the sport. With Verstappen leading a motivated squad, the 2026 Formula 1 season promises to be an intriguing blend of fresh innovation and experienced skill.
