The Japanese Grand Prix will be a true celebration, which is why three teams have decided to change their car designs and hit the track with new liveries inspired by the host country.
The excitement for the Japanese Grand Prix is undeniable, as this weekend we will witness one of the most beloved races among Formula 1 fans. With this in mind, three F1 teams—Red Bull, Sauber, and Haas—have made a bold change for this race at Suzuka Circuit, swapping their traditional car designs for ones inspired by Japanese culture.
Red Bull’s Tribute to Honda
Starting with the team that has been in the spotlight recently due to the driver switch between Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, the main Red Bull team has left behind its traditional dark blue, along with the yellow and red of its logo, in favor of a striking white design with carbon fiber finishes, black sponsor branding, and the iconic charging bulls in metallic red.
This bold yet beautifully executed change is Red Bull’s way of celebrating its partnership with Honda. The RB21’s design is inspired by the RA272, the car that secured the Japanese automaker’s first-ever Formula 1 victory in 1965.
Haas Adorns Its Car with Sakura Blossoms
Moving on to the American team, Haas has certainly turned heads with its Suzuka-inspired design. Gone is the usual black-and-white color scheme, replaced by a predominantly white car with black and red accents, adorned with cherry blossom patterns. These flowers, known as “Sakura,” are among Japan’s most iconic symbols.
With various shades of pink and a few black flowers, the Haas cars of Esteban Ocon and Ollie Bearman will stand out on the track, paying tribute to the blooming season of this emblematic tree in the East Asian island nation.
Sauber Brings the “Barbecue” to Japan
Lastly, Stake Kick Sauber is the third team to revamp its livery. Unlike Red Bull and Haas, however, the Swiss team has taken an unconventional approach, ditching its signature green in favor of a design that mimics raw meat.
The Sauber cars of Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto will feature a deep red base reminiscent of fresh meat cuts, with lighter details that mimic the marbling of premium beef. This unexpected design is a tribute to Wagyu, Japan’s exclusive and highly prized beef. While at first glance, a meat-themed livery might seem unusual for Sauber, it is nonetheless a creative and fitting homage to the culture of this upcoming Grand Prix.
Straight from the grill to the grid, did someone order a Wagyu? 🥩🇯🇵 @stakef1team_ks pic.twitter.com/Hhy3zAaNyL
— Stake.com (@Stake) April 1, 2025
