Our Top Picks for the Most Iconic Formula One Liveries

As we look back on 75 years of Formula One, we reflect on the spectacle of speed, precision, engineering, and sheer brilliance. The cars, of course, play a significant role. Over the decades, teams have adorned their machines with stunning liveries that have become symbols of dominance, style, and heritage. It makes sense that the 2025 liveries of all ten teams would debut at F1 75 Live at the O2 in London on February 18th.

In the meantime, here are our top picks for the most iconic Formula One liveries:

McLaren MP4/4 (1988) – Marlboro Livery

Perhaps the most instantly recognizable livery in motorsport history, the red and white Marlboro design of the McLaren MP4/4 is synonymous with Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost's legendary battles. This livery wasn't just aesthetically pleasing - it won 15 out of the 16 races of the 1988 season, making it one of the most dominant cars in Formula One's history.

Ferrari F2004 – Rosso Corsa Red

Ferrari's traditional Rosso Corsa red has been a team staple since its inception, but the F2004 stands out as one of the most successful cars ever. Driven by Michael Schumacher, this sleek red beast cemented its place in history with an astounding 15 wins in a single season.

Williams FW14B (1992) – Canon & Camel Blue-Yellow

The Williams FW14B, driven by Nigel Mansell, not only dominated the 1992 season but also featured a striking blue, white, and yellow livery, with sponsors from Canon and Camel. It is a perfect representation of the early 1990s F1 aesthetic.

McLaren MP4-23

The McLaren MP4-23, which competed in the 2008 Formula One season, stands out as one of the most visually stunning cars ever produced. Its chrome silver livery with red Vodafone accents gave it a futuristic, almost liquid-metal aesthetic that made it instantly recognizable on the grid. The sleek aerodynamics and striking color scheme made the MP4-23 look aggressive yet elegant. The car's association with Lewis Hamilton's first Drivers' World Championship title that season further amplifies its legendary status. Overall, the MP4-23 delivered in terms of performance and remains a masterpiece in F1 design history.

Red Bull RB7 (2011) – Dark Blue with Charging Bull

While Red Bull Racing's dark blue livery has been a design staple since their F1 debut, the RB7 of 2011, with its matte finish and aggressive graphics, represented the peak of their dominance, securing both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships with Sebastian Vettel.

Red Bull Racing RB16B (2020, 2021)

The RB16B embodied Red Bull Racing's signature dark blue and red charging bull design with a refined matte finish. The aggressive aerodynamics and the striking contrast of colors gave the car a dynamic, fierce look. Max Verstappen's first championship victory in 2021 with the car adds even more allure, making it an instant classic.

Mercedes W10 (2019)

Mercedes is famously nicknamed the "Silver Arrows," but the W10's livery in 2019 was a masterpiece. The silver base, accented by Petronas turquoise and black carbon fiber elements, gave it a sleek and modern aesthetic. The intricate details, such as the fade from silver to black near the rear wing, added depth to its design, making it one of the most elegant F1 cars in recent history.

Scuderia Toro Rosso STR12 (2017)

The Toro Rosso STR12 debuted in 2017 and introduced a fresh and unexpected livery. Its deep blue metallic finish and vibrant red and silver accents stood out among the grid. The bold bull graphic on the side and the clean, polished look made it one of the most visually appealing cars of the hybrid era.

Mercedes-AMG W11 (2020) – Black Lives Matter Tribute

Mercedes' switch from their traditional silver to an all-black livery in 2020 as a statement against racism and inequality was one of the most powerful visual changes in the sport's history. The W11 was also one of the most dominant F1 cars ever, with Hamilton winning 11 out of 21 races and securing a seventh championship title that season.

These liveries have defined eras and left lasting impressions on fans and the sport. Whether through dominance, style, or cultural significance, each design has cemented its place in F1 history. Which iconic livery is your favorite?