VCARB FC: Racing Bulls rebrand with football fever in Barcelona

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This weekend’s Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix is getting a dose of football fever, courtesy of Racing Bulls who unveiled a striking, one-off livery for its VCARB 03, timed perfectly with the kick-off of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Marking the team's third special design this season, the "VCARB FC" concept bridges the worlds of motorsport and football culture. The sharp, geometric livery features bold contrasts and a custom VCARB FC crest, blending a chequered flag with three stars to honor the World Cup’s host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

To complete the match-day vibe, driver duo Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will sport a full retro-influenced football kit throughout the weekend.

The project leaned into grassroots football influences, utilizing three emerging creative talents to shape the graphic design, fashion, and photography of the campaign.

Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer highlighted the natural synergy between the two global fanbases.

"Formula 1 and football are two global sports with incredibly passionate communities, united by a shared sense of identity, creativity and culture," Bayer said.

"With VCARB FC, we’re celebrating that crossover, bringing together the energy of both sports. We’re also proud to give emerging talent the opportunity to help shape campaigns like this, bringing fresh perspectives that continue to push the boundaries in the world of F1."

Riding high from a season-best double points finish in Monaco, the team looks to carry this creative momentum straight onto the pitch in Barcelona.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.