Red Bull Racing has confirmed that its RB14 Formula One car will premiere on February 19, a few days earlier than expected.

The company traditionally launches its F1 cars after most of its rivals in a bid to maximize development time. However, a February 19 reveal means RBR will be the second racing outfit to reveal its 2018 car, a few days after Williams becomes the first with its unveiling on February 15.

Towards the end of last season, Red Bull boss Christian Horner said the team was targeting an early release target to ensure the car is completely ready for pre-season testing.

“We are focusing on a slightly earlier release target, which only involves about five days, but the design is so concertinaed and production schedules so tight, that those five days are actually pretty valuable in terms of being on the front foot rather than the back foot.

“Our intention is to try to turn up at the first test in a position to knock about 100 laps out,” Horner said.

After a strong second half to the 2017 season, many pundits expect Red Bull Racing to continue its strong form into 2018. However, it won’t be easy with both Mercedes and Ferrari also pushing the boundaries. Both of their vehicles will be unveiled on February 22.