As the 2026 F1 season approaches, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has unveiled its plans through statements from the team’s most important members. The press kit was released, featuring the F1 drivers, the F1 Academy driver, as well as the CEO and Team Principal of the Italian squad.
Words from the F1 drivers
Rookie Arvid Lindblad opens the discussion, reflecting on his debut season expectations: “There are many unknowns, so it’s difficult to make precise predictions.” He added insights about the work the team is doing and their goals: “As a team, we are working hard to arrive in Melbourne in the best possible shape. Our objective is to fight for points, but I still have a lot to learn. My priority is to keep pushing myself and improving every weekend.”
Regarding the circuits he is most excited about, Lindblad is clear: “I’m thrilled to drive on tracks new to me, especially Suzuka, Austin, and São Paulo.” He also praised the new Red Bull engine: “It’s fast and reliable. Credit is due to Red Bull and Ford for the incredible work they’ve done.” When asked about the most challenging part of the new car, he said: “I would say the Power Unit. It’s the biggest change. I’m focusing on understanding it thoroughly and finding ways to go faster.” Lindblad also shared a comment about his teammate Liam Lawson: “We’ve known each other for a long time in the Red Bull program. The environment in the team is fantastic and welcoming.”
Next, Liam Lawson shared his perspective on the season with confidence. The New Zealander explained his approach to the new car: “We started preparing last year, so I knew what to expect compared to 2025.” Regarding the biggest challenge for 2026, Liam Lawson is certain: “Battery management is the most difficult aspect. It’s much more sensitive than last year. Preparing the battery for qualifying or managing it during longer stints has become extremely complex.”
On objectives, Lawson remains pragmatic like Lindblad: “It’s hard to say where we stand, we don’t yet have a clear picture of our true pace. We want to score points, but my priority is to extract the maximum from myself in every single session.”
Statements from the F1 Academy driver
The press kit also highlights Rafaela Ferreira, a young Brazilian talent and a key member of the F1 Racing Bulls Academy 2026 female program. After a promising debut, Ferreira prepares for her second season in the category, saying: “I’m very excited. My first year was dedicated to learning and consistent growth. My main goal this year is to achieve a win, which would be really special. Of course, I would also like to achieve multiple podiums throughout the championship.”
When asked about her favorite circuits, the Brazilian did not hesitate: “Canada. I love driving through the chicanes and brushing the walls, it’s a lot of fun as a driver. I can’t wait to race in Austin as well. It’s a track that many have high expectations for, and I have a feeling it will be an incredible circuit and atmosphere.” Ferreira also emphasized the importance of the team’s support: “VCARB and Red Bull Academy have given me the tools to improve as a driver and as a person. I’ll never forget when they celebrated my podium in Brazil. The VCARB family has supported me from day one.”
The CEO and Team Principal vision
Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer spoke about the team’s strategy for the Creator Platform: “We want to grow our Gen Z fan base through authentic content.” For Bayer, the team must act as an incubator for creative talent to make F1 more accessible and inclusive.
Team Principal Alan Permane described 2026 as the most challenging season of his career: “The integration between chassis and engine is tighter than ever.” He also praised Ford’s contribution to the development of the new Power Unit’s electric components: “Ford has worked closely with Red Bull’s engine department, with their engineers present directly at the Milton Keynes headquarters. They are a fundamental part of this process.” On the team’s goals, he said: “I don’t want to set specific targets since there are still too many unknowns, but we always aim to do everything perfectly in every area.”
Racing Bulls 2026 technical sheet
- Engine: Red Bull Ford Powertrains DM01 (1.6-liter V6 turbo hybrid)
- Power Unit: 400 kW (ICE) + 350 kW (MGU-K)
- Fuel: 100% sustainable synthetic (Mobil)
- Chassis: VCARB carbon fiber survival cell
- Bodywork: Carbon composite with front and rear active aerodynamics
- Transmission: Red Bull Technologies, 8-speed seamless-shift, longitudinal
- Clutch: Carbon multi-plate with electro-hydraulic control
- Suspensions: Carbon multi-link and pushrod (Red Bull Technologies)
- Electronics: FIA-standard ECU and homologated electrical and electronic systems
- Instrumentation: Motion Applied Technologies
- Minimum weight: 772 kg
- Tires: Pirelli P Zero (dry) and Cinturato (wet) with 18-inch rims
- Lubricants: Mobil 1
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