F1 team launch World Cup livery for Barcelona Grand Prix
Formula 1 outfit Racing Bulls has unveiled a striking special-edition livery for this weekend’s Barcelona Grand Prix, celebrating the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team has embraced football fever with a unique redesign that blends elements of the world’s two most popular sports ahead of a busy weekend in Spain.
The special livery will appear on both Racing Bulls cars throughout the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix weekend. The design arrives as the FIFA World Cup officially gets underway, creating a rare overlap between two major global sporting events. Team officials say the concept was inspired by football culture and the excitement surrounding the tournament, which is being hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
As part of the campaign, Racing Bulls have temporarily rebranded themselves as “VCARB FC,” adopting a football-themed identity for the race weekend. The transformation extends beyond the cars themselves, with the team introducing new football-inspired uniforms and branding designed to reflect the crossover between Formula 1 and the beautiful game.
One of the most eye-catching features of the new livery is the addition of a custom club-style crest displayed prominently on the car. The badge incorporates football-inspired imagery while paying tribute to the three host nations of the World Cup. Bold geometric shapes, contrasting colours, and a redesigned visual identity create a look unlike anything else currently on the Formula 1 grid.
Perhaps the standout detail is found on the wheel covers. Racing Bulls have transformed the wheel designs to resemble traditional footballs, complete with a black-and-white pattern that immediately catches the eye. The unusual design choice has generated significant attention among fans on social media, with many praising the creativity and originality of the concept.
Drivers Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will also sport specially designed team apparel throughout the weekend. The new outfits resemble football jerseys more than traditional Formula 1 racewear, reinforcing the team’s football-inspired theme and helping create a complete identity for the campaign.
The launch comes at a positive moment for the team. Both Lawson and Lindblad arrive in Barcelona after impressive performances at the Monaco Grand Prix, where they secured career-best results. The strong form has boosted confidence within the squad, and the team hopes the momentum can continue on one of Formula 1’s most demanding circuits.
Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer explained that the initiative was designed to celebrate the shared passion, culture, and identity that connect Formula 1 and football fans around the world. The project also showcases the work of emerging creative talent who contributed to the design and branding elements surrounding the launch.
Barcelona has long been regarded as one of football’s most passionate cities, making it a fitting venue for the special livery’s debut. With the World Cup beginning and Formula 1’s championship battle continuing to intensify, the team hopes its unique design will become one of the talking points of the race weekend.
As fans prepare for another crucial round of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Racing Bulls’ football-inspired makeover offers a colourful reminder of the global reach of both sports and the growing trend of creative special liveries across the F1 grid.