Red Bull Ampol Racing Unveils 2026 Ford Mustang Supercar Livery at 'Ignition On' Event
Red Bull Ampol Racing presented its 2026 Ford Mustang Supercar livery at the 'Ignition On' event in Geelong, Victoria, on February 7. The event marked a new partnership with Ford, with Triple Eight assuming homologation responsibilities for Ford Supercars. The unveiling showcased the new car design, which incorporates elements acknowledging the Ford collaboration, and outlined the team's operational plans for the upcoming season.
Event Details
The ‘Ignition On’ event was held on February 7 on the Geelong foreshore in Victoria. This public event featured sponsor activations and live demonstrations.
Red Bull Ampol Racing drivers Broc Feeney, Will Brown, Scott Pye, and enduro signing Nick Percat were present. The event commenced at 9:30 AM, with the pre-show for the livery unveiling beginning at 11 AM on Hearne Parade. Players from the Geelong Football Club were expected to attend the launch.
A New Era: Triple Eight and Ford Partnership
Triple Eight Supercars team has transitioned to assume Ford’s Supercars homologation responsibilities for the upcoming season. This significant change follows a previous association with General Motors, which was announced in January.
Geelong was strategically selected as the launch location due to Ford’s Australian operations having originated in the city over a century ago and its historical connection through continuous sponsorship of the Geelong Football Club.
Jamie Whincup, Triple Eight's Managing Director, noted the team's return to Ford after 16 years. He stated that the 2026 race car was "designed and built by Triple Eight, features a Triple Eight powertrain, and will compete with support from Ford Racing globally and team partners."
Livery Design: Embracing the Ford Collaboration
The 2026 Red Bull Ampol Racing Ford Mustang Supercars livery incorporates new features that acknowledge the team's partnership with Ford.
Key elements include blue stripes along the side, which are a lighter shade than the matte blue associated with Red Bull. The white side skirts from the previous year have been replaced with two shades of blue. Additionally, Adidas branding is now visible on the front wheel arches, as part of a new merchandise collaboration.
Team Operations and Season Preparations
Triple Eight plans to field three cars in the upcoming season. This includes two Red Bull Ampol Racing entries and one customer Objective Racing Mustang.
Jamie Whincup commented on the preparations undertaken for the cars, which involved establishing an engine shop, conducting aero testing, and building the vehicles for the season.