Haas Unveils VF-26 and New Toyota Gazoo Racing Livery for 2026 Season

Haas has officially pulled the covers off the VF-26, revealing a striking new white and red livery that underscores its deepened ties with title sponsor Toyota Gazoo Racing. As the third team to unveil its 2026 challenger, the American squad is banking on continuity and a fresh set of regulations to climb the Formula 1 pecking order after a solid but midfield-heavy 2025 campaign.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season represents a massive technical reset, offering a rare opportunity for teams to shuffle the competitive order. For Haas, securing Toyota Gazoo Racing as a title partner isn't just about branding; it signals a potential boost in resources and stability. With the midfield pack becoming increasingly competitive, this partnership and the new car's performance under the fresh regulations are critical for Haas to break away from the pack and challenge the frontrunners.

The Details:

• The Look: The VF-26 sports a "new-look white livery with red accents," a clear visual nod to its new Japanese partner.
• Driver Stability: Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman retain their seats. Team principal Ayao Komatsu emphasized that keeping the driver lineup stable is a key asset as they adapt to the new machinery.
• The Challenge: Owner Gene Haas noted the difficulty of balancing the 2025 season with the design and build of the 2026 car, stating the pre-season will be crucial to understanding the car's capabilities.
• 2025 Context: Haas finished eighth in the Constructors' Championship last year with 79 points, facing "exceptionally high standard" competition in the midfield.
• Timing: The team moved up its launch date to avoid a clash with rival teams.

What's next:

The real test begins shortly. Haas will conduct a five-day private shakedown test at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona next week. This will be the first opportunity to see how the VF-26 performs on track and how the team adapts to the new regulatory era.