Christian Horner has shared an important update about Red Bull’s 2025 Formula 1 car, revealing that it will be an evolution of the current RB20 rather than a completely new model. The decision not to start from scratch with the RB21, the anticipated name of next season’s car, stems from the team’s strategic approach to maximize performance while minimizing unnecessary development costs.
Red Bull, based in Milton Keynes, believes that building upon the success of their current car makes more sense, especially given the limited development time expected next year. The 2026 power unit regulations will demand significant attention from all teams, leaving minimal time and resources for drastic innovations on next year’s cars. Red Bull has already shown a preference for continuity, as many components from their record-breaking RB19 – which won all but one race last season – were carried over into the RB20.
As teams shift focus to the 2026 season, Red Bull faces a crucial challenge in the upcoming year. A successful winter development period will be essential to maintain their competitive edge. Factors such as the cost cap and Red Bull’s role as a power unit supplier for the new regulations mean that a complete overhaul for 2025 isn’t the best option. Instead, an evolved version of the current car will allow the team to optimize performance while staying within budget.
Horner explained this decision by emphasizing the importance of balancing long-term and short-term objectives in Formula 1. He remarked, “In this business, you’re always juggling and you’ve got to put one foot in front of the other. You can’t project too far into the future. Long-term in F1 is about two and a half months.” He further noted that since development in F1 is always ongoing, much of what they learn from this season can be applied to next year’s car.
By evolving the RB20 into the RB21, Red Bull can maintain momentum while navigating the constraints of the cost cap. As Horner pointed out, unless a major performance upgrade is justified, there’s no need to make sweeping changes to the car’s design.
Red Bull is under pressure to deliver, particularly as Max Verstappen is fighting to retain his title. With the final six races approaching, all eyes will be on how Red Bull manages this delicate balance between evolving their car for next year and preparing for the significant changes in 2026.