SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE - OCTOBER 11: Mechanics celebrate from the pit wall as Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (3) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB22 Red Bull Ford Powertrains takes the chequered flag during the F1 Grand Prix of Singapore at Marina Bay Street Circuit on October 11, 2026 in Singapore, Singapore. (Photo by Peter Fox/Getty Images)
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Red Bull Racing is now using artificial intelligence to help team staff make critical race-day decisions.
Across Formula 1, tech giants are expanding their partnerships with racing teams as AI finds its way into everything from race strategy to fan engagement. Google is working with McLaren to integrate its Gemini AI tools, while Mercedes-AMG Petronas has partnered with Microsoft to use AI and cloud technology for performance analysis and race strategy. Ferrari, meanwhile, is working with IBM to develop AI-powered experiences for fans.
Red Bull Racing and Oracle have developed an AI-powered strategy agent to help engineers interpret Formula 1 regulations and past rulings. Initially designed as a search tool, the system has evolved to recommend actions during races, Jack Harington, head of technical and performance partnerships at Oracle Red Bull Racing, told CNBC in an interview.
Initially a search tool, the system has evolved into an agentic AI that draws on a wider range of information sources, Harington said.
"It's actually making decisions for us," he added.
As an example, Harington pointed to the 2025 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, when Max Verstappen cut a corner while defending his position. The AI agent recommended that Red Bull give back the position to avoid a potential penalty, he added.
While that went against the team's competitive instincts, Red Bull followed the advice, and Verstappen subsequently overtook his rival, Harington said.
Still, Harington stressed that humans remain involved in the decision-making process.
"Formula One is and will always be a human sport," he said. He does not see AI completely replacing engineers and strategists, but rather enhancing their capabilities and allowing them to focus on their strengths, noting that there are "so many different variables" in Formula 1, from what happens on and off the track to the broader championship picture.
The team also had reason to celebrate on the track Sunday, as Max Verstappen claimed his first-ever Singapore Grand Prix victory, taking his career win tally to 73.