Red Bull unveils RB22 with in-house power unit for Barcelona shakedown

Red Bull has officially unveiled the RB22 ahead of the Barcelona shakedown, showcasing the team's first car featuring an in-house power unit. The Milton Keynes squad released initial images of the 2026 contender, which will hit the track for the first time at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Max Verstappen and new teammate Isack Hadjar are set to share driving duties as Red Bull aims to kickstart its title defense with the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains DM01 engine.

Why it matters:

The debut of the DM01 power unit is a defining moment for Red Bull, marking their full independence from previous engine suppliers. Success with this in-house technology is crucial for sustaining their dominance in the new regulatory era. As Verstappen targets a fifth world championship, the reliability and performance of this self-built engine will be the deciding factor in their campaign.

The details:

• Power Unit Milestone: The RB22 introduces the Red Bull Ford Powertrains DM01, the first engine designed and built entirely within the team's facilities.
• Driver Partnership: Verstappen enters his 11th season with the team, joined by Hadjar, who graduates from Racing Bulls after his 2025 rookie season.
• Testing Approach: Unlike some rivals choosing to delay their track appearance, Red Bull will run from the opening day of the five-day test, utilizing their allotted three days immediately.
• Technical Secrecy: Following launch season tradition, the released images offer minimal insight into the car's aerodynamic concepts or technical specifications.

What's next:

All eyes will be on the timing sheets at Barcelona to gauge the true pace of the RB22 and the reliability of the new power unit against the competition.