Recap events from Detroit as Red Bull and Racing Bulls unveil 2026 cars
The first launch event of the 2026 season took place in the evening hours in Detroit, Michigan, as Red Bull and Racing Bulls revealed their challengers to the world.
The event was hosted at the home of Ford, with the American giant working in collaboration with Red Bull to create the Red Bull Ford engine for 2026, used by both teams for the 2026 season and beyond.
At the event, which GPblog attended, we recap what took place in the ‘Motor City’.
Red Bull's RB22 shown to the world
Preparations for the 2026 season began with the launch of Red Bull’s RB22, heralding brand new regulations that will see DRS replaced by active aerodynamics, as well as more electrical engine power.
A striking livery was presented, and there was a significant change to the livery of the Austrian team, with plenty of blue featured across the car as Red Bull marks its powertrain partnership with Ford.
Four-time World Champion Max Verstappen and his new teammate Isack Hadjar were both present in Detroit to see their machine revealed.
Racing Bulls reveal their 2026 car
It wasn't just Red Bull that announced their 2026 challenger to the world, but their sister team, Racing Bulls, also launched their car in Detroit.
The Italian team will also be using Red Bull Ford engines for the 2026 season, and some blue accents have also been added to the rear of its livery.
These blue accents are paired with the fan-favourite white colour scheme, creating the machine that Liam Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad will get behind the wheel of.
Verstappen reacts to Red Bull's livery
After the RB22 was officially unveiled, Max Verstappen spoke about the machine that he hopes will bring him a fifth World Championship.
"I love the new livery, it looks really nice, and I think it is going to stand out on track this year. Seeing it in real life was special, and I was really impressed and surprised by how much of a change it is," the Dutchman said at the event.
"The whole look brings back a lot of great memories of back in the day when I was just starting out in F1 and everything was new. I’m excited to drive a car with a completely different look. I’m not sure the mechanics will be happy about the time it’ll take to keep this clean!"
Verstappen’s new teammate, Isack Hadjar, was also enthusiastic about seeing his new car: "It’s a new era for me, and it’s pretty crazy that the Team and the whole sport are entering one at the same time too, it all feels very special. Being here in Detroit and seeing the livery in real life and the scale of what we have done to create a power unit is getting me hyped for this season."
Read also
Reaction from Racing Bulls
Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad also had their first reactions after the unveiling of their Racing Bulls machine in Detroit.
"The partnership between Ford and Red Bull, the energy around the team, and the ambition for what’s ahead make this an incredibly exciting time to be part of VCARB. I’m more motivated than ever to push forward and help turn that vision into results on track," Lawson stated.
Lindblad, who will make his debut in F1 with the Italian team, also conveyed a huge amount of excitement: “This moment is honestly surreal. To be introduced as a Formula One driver at an event like this, in such an iconic setting, is something I’ll never forget. The team’s vision, the new power unit, and the belief they’ve shown in me mean a lot."
Mekies hails new era at Red Bull
Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies also had his say on the Austrian team's 2026 machine, joining Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar on stage in Detroit.
"Seeing the new livery for the first time is one of those special moments; it starts to make you feel excited about the new season. We are going to look spectacular on track!" the Frenchman exclaimed.
"This is a new and significant era for the sport as a whole and for us as a team. We wanted our livery to reflect this, while also giving a nod to Red Bull Racing’s beginnings. This livery is designed to celebrate the spirit of our early days."
Read also
Verstappen on the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring
There was an answer from Max Verstappen about the potential participation the Dutchman will have in the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring.
There have been months of talk about whether the Dutchman will be involved in the endurance race at the iconic Nordschleife, and after a question from GPblog in Detroit, Verstappen gave his answer.
"That is, at the moment, very difficult to give you an answer on," said the 27-year-old. "If I do it, I want to prepare well. And all the prep races are clashing. With Formula One. So, only if maybe something changes there, then maybe I can do it."
GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update
Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.
Popular on GPBlog
Red Bull and Racing Bulls unveil 2026 F1 liveries live from Detroit
Full overview of 2026 F1 liveries as Red Bull start launch season in Detroit
FIA steward: 'Race director Masi gifted Verstappen the 2021 title'
