The upcoming Red Bull RB22 car for the F1 2026 season is set to revolutionize the sport with its innovative design. According to recent reports, the RB22 will feature a double-pushrod suspension layout, marking a significant departure from the team's previous philosophy. This change is expected to enhance mechanical simplicity and predictability in suspension behavior, a crucial factor as Formula 1 transitions to flat-bottom machinery for 2026. The pushrod suspension design is also anticipated to offer better packaging benefits compared to the pullrod layout, aligning with the new power unit layout. This development comes as Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls prepare to unveil their new engines, produced in collaboration with Ford, at a season-launch event in Detroit on January 25. The event will take place just two weeks before the first test of the F1 2026 season in Barcelona. The RB22 will be driven by Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, with the team's technical partnership with Ford opening up opportunities for Honda to join the Aston Martin team from 2026 onwards. The performance of the new RBPT-Ford engine remains a key question mark, with rumors suggesting Mercedes is ahead in its preparations for F1 2026. However, Red Bull's decision to develop its own power unit is an ambitious move, as highlighted by former team principal Christian Horner, who emphasized the challenge of competing with established engine manufacturers like Mercedes and Ferrari. Horner's comments were echoed by his successor, Laurent Mekies, who acknowledged the difficulty of the task but expressed confidence in Red Bull's approach, emphasizing the team's commitment to rapid development and a step-by-step strategy.
