Bybit Drops Out of Red Bull Racing Partnership as 2025 F1 Season Approaches

Red Bull Drops Cryptocurrency Sponsor in Significant Sponsorship Reshuffle

Red Bull Racing has quietly parted ways with cryptocurrency exchange Bybit, bringing an end to a three-year partnership worth $150 million.

The deal, which began in February 2022, positioned Bybit as one of the team’s biggest sponsors.

However, as the 2025 Formula One season approaches, Bybit is no longer listed among Red Bull’s partners—a decision that seems to reflect a shift in priorities for the championship-winning team.

Bybit Vanishes from Red Bull’s Partner List

Fans were the first to notice Bybit’s disappearance.

One observant supporter on Reddit shared,

“[Breaking] Oracle Red Bull Racing has removed Bybit from there team partners page. They were the biggest sponsor in F1 paying 150M$ a year to the team.”

Red Bull has not officially commented on the matter, but with the contract running its course by the end of 2024, it appears the team has chosen not to renew.

Bybit’s sponsorship focused heavily on fan engagement, including NFTs and fan tokens, but these efforts have seemingly lost their appeal to Red Bull as the team looks toward more performance-driven partnerships.

Cryptocurrency Fallout? Scrutiny May Have Played a Role

The decision to cut ties with Bybit may have been influenced by growing scrutiny of cryptocurrency exchanges worldwide.

Once touted as the largest annual crypto sponsorship in international sports, the Bybit deal now feels like a relic of a different time.

With the crypto industry under increasing pressure, Red Bull’s move might also reflect a desire to distance itself from potential controversies.

What’s Next for Red Bull’s Sponsorship Line-Up?

Red Bull’s existing sponsors, such as Oracle, Heineken, and Pepe Jeans, ensure the team remains financially secure.

Oracle alone contributes $90 million annually and plays a crucial role in Red Bull’s operations, offering software that enhances race strategies.

By contrast, Bybit’s contribution was largely financial, with little impact on on-track performance.

This may explain why Red Bull seems to be prioritising partners that can contribute to their racing success.

Companies with technical expertise, like Oracle, offer tangible benefits, helping the team maintain its competitive edge.

Driver and Leadership Changes Add to Team Overhaul

The sponsorship shake-up is just one part of a broader transformation at Red Bull.

Sergio Perez, who finished a distant second to Max Verstappen in the 2024 drivers’ standings, has been replaced by Liam Lawson.

Perez’s struggles, including a costly performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, left Red Bull questioning his future.

L-R: Sergio Perez and Liam Lawson

Lawson, a promising talent from New Zealand, steps into the seat after making his mark in substitute roles during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

Meanwhile, Red Bull also faces leadership changes, with design legend Adrian Newey heading to Aston Martin and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley moving to Audi.

New Deals, New Vision?

Red Bull’s next moves will be closely watched.

Will they replace Bybit with another crypto sponsor or focus entirely on technical partnerships?

Max Verstappen is aiming for his fifth title in 2025 and hinted at changes during Red Bull’s 'Talking Bull' podcast, saying,

"The livery, I hope it’s a bit different,".

The team’s future looks set to be one of reinvention, both on and off the track.