Over the past couple of years, Red Bull Racing and Honda have built an inseparable bond as a customer team and a supplier. And recently, at the Turkish Grand Prix, Red Bull unveiled a special livery, cherishing their remarkable journey with the Japanese outfit.
The Milton Keynes outfit switched from their classic blue livery to white, honoring Honda’s former liveries in Formula 1. Well, here’s something interesting. Red Bull aren’t done with one-off liveries yet and are set to introduce one at the United States Grand Prix as well, which is scheduled in a couple of weeks’ time.
Of course, it won’t be as noticeable as the one we came across at Istanbul Park.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Red Bull Racing’s upcoming makeover to livery
According to Decal Spotters, Red Bull are planning to run with Acura branding over the race weekend at the Circuit of The Americas. The brand ‘Acura’ will be present both on the car and the racing gear, but will not be replacing the name, Honda.
Prior to F1, Honda promoted the Acura branding in IndyCar with the Meyer Shank Racing team during the Acura Grand Prix at Long Beach.
Honda has previously used Acura's branding in IndyCar with Meyer Shank Racing, promoting the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. #F1 #IndyCar #Acura pic.twitter.com/C1WwrNLUnw
— Decalspotters (@decalspotters) October 11, 2021
Here’s an insight into what an ‘Acura’ means.
Acura is basically Honda’s luxury division, currently operating around the United States and Canada. Honda unveiled this premium brand back in 1986 and has since been competing against high-performance luxury brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, and others.
Red Bull’s hopes of beating Mercedes in the US
COTA will be returning to the racing calendar this season after the brief absence in 2020 due to the pandemic. So, less than 2 weeks away from the Grand Prix, how will Red Bull fare against Mercedes?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The last time F1 raced in the US, Mercedes dominated all the way to secure a 1-2 finish. However, Verstappen, who was then in a much inferior car, secured the final podium spot, hardly a second away from his current F1 rival, Hamilton.
Hence, if Verstappen could pull off such a performance in this year’s Red Bull car, there is a huge chance the Dutchman will be able to secure his 8th Grand Prix win at COTA.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Overall, an interesting duel between Hamilton and Verstappen is on cards. But, can Bottas and Perez join them to make it a 4-way fight for the race win?
Watch Story: Lewis Hamilton: Ranking His F1 World Titles From 2008 to 2020