First images of 2026 Racing Bulls car emerge from Imola shakedown

The Race has obtained the first images of Racing Bulls' 2026 Formula 1 car during a shakedown at Imola. While the team recently showcased a livery launch in Detroit alongside sister team Red Bull and partner Ford, Tuesday's session provided the first representative look at the actual VCARB 03 chassis, which sports a particularly distinctive airbox design.

Why it matters:

This shakedown marks a pivotal moment for the Red Bull family as it transitions into a new era. With the 2026 regulations overhaul approaching, the debut of the Red Bull Powertrains engine on track is a critical validation of their internal manufacturing capabilities, separating them from their previous Honda partnership.

The Details:

• Real-World Debut: Unlike the static showcar displayed in Detroit, the VCARB 03 completed its first laps at a wet and cold Imola circuit, offering the first true glimpse of the car's aerodynamic intent.
• Distinctive Features: Early images highlight a unique airbox solution, suggesting a different aerodynamic philosophy compared to the showcar or the sister team's concepts.
• Running Schedule: The team utilized Tuesday for a 15km 'demonstration' run, adhering to FIA regulations, with plans for a more extensive 'promotional' event on Wednesday to gather further data.
• Power Unit Milestone: The session served as the maiden voyage for the new Red Bull Powertrains engine. This is the first time the unit has run on track as the team officially operates as a fully-fledged power unit manufacturer.

What's next:

Following the initial shakedown, the team will proceed with the longer promotional run on Wednesday. These early miles are invaluable for checking basic systems and reliability, setting the stage for the intense development race leading up to the 2026 season opener.