Daijiworld Media Network - Imola

Imola, Jan 20: The 2026 Formula 1 season moved a step closer to reality as Racing Bulls’ new car, the VCARB 03, completed its first on-track shakedown at Imola in Italy earlier this week, marking a key milestone for the Red Bull camp.

The moment followed last week’s unveiling in Detroit, where Racing Bulls and sister team Red Bull revealed their 2026 liveries and future plans. The upcoming season will be historic for Red Bull, as it will be the first year Red Bull Ford Powertrains competes as a full engine manufacturer.

While the Detroit event showcased only a showcar, Tuesday’s cold and wet morning at Imola offered the first real glimpse of the VCARB 03 in action. The car reflects Formula 1’s new chassis and engine regulations, featuring a redesigned airbox and revised packaging.

Racing Bulls have retained their popular white livery for 2026, refining it with sharper lines and blue accents along the chassis, subtly acknowledging Ford’s arrival as a power unit partner.

Liam Lawson was at the wheel for the team’s demonstration event, completing the regulation-limited 15 kilometres on full wet tyres in light rain. Although a few minor early issues were reported, the car ran smoothly overall, successfully completing its first outing. The laps were also significant as they marked the first on-track running of Red Bull Powertrains’ engine as a manufacturer.

The team is scheduled to return to Imola on Wednesday for a full filming day, during which up to 200 kilometres of running is permitted on Pirelli demonstration tyres. Lawson and Arvid Lindblad are expected to share driving duties as preparations intensify ahead of pre-season testing.

Racing Bulls’ next major test will come in Barcelona, where official pre-season testing is set to take place from January 26 to 30, offering the first true measure of how the Ford-powered VCARB 03 compares with the rest of the Formula 1 grid.