Max Verstappen and Red Bull newcomer Yuki Tsunoda will be sporting a special edition of the RB21 at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. In honor of their successful partnership with Honda, the car will once again be decked out in a striking white livery. Red Bull cars have previously been presented in a white color scheme, and fans have repeatedly pleaded for the return of this iconic livery.
“To mark the final season of one of the most successful engine partnerships in the history of motorsport, Red Bull will race with a special livery at the Japanese Grand Prix,” reads an official press release. “The livery is inspired by Honda’s first victory in Formula 1 with the RA272. With American Richie Ginther at the wheel, the team won the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix.”
The typically dark blue RB21 has received a white makeover, complete with red accents and motifs. The iconic H-logo of Honda adorns the nose of the car and can also be found on the rear of the bodywork. According to Red Bull, a special logo will also be added to both the RB21 and the VCARB 02, in honor of the sixtieth anniversary of Honda’s first Formula 1 victory. The white Honda livery made its debut at the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix and has since become a fan favorite.
‘Most Dominant Period in History’
“Our relationship with Honda deserves to be celebrated,” responded Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. “It has brought us continuous success and ushered in one of the most dominant periods in our team’s history. Max (Verstappen) has won four titles with a Honda engine and the team two constructors’ championships. The reliability of these power units also made it possible to complete the most successful season ever in 2023. It has been a very enjoyable collaboration, and I look forward to seeing this livery on the track.”
Continuing the Legacy of Honda and Red Bull
Koji Watanabe, Chairman of Honda’s racing division, was equally enthusiastic: “It moves me to see the livery of the RA272 on this latest Red Bull machine, especially in this final year of our collaboration. This successful partnership will always shine brightly in the history of Formula 1.” From 2026, Honda’s engine engineers will exclusively supply power units to the Aston Martin team. Meanwhile, Red Bull will collaborate with Ford to develop their own engine.
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