The iconic glass-and-steel marvel of Red Bull Hangar-7 roared back to life in show-stopping style, marking its grand reopening with an event that transformed Salzburg Airport’s runway into an extraordinary stage for motorsport, aviation, and world-class performances.
Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen headlined the celebration with a visceral display of power, racing the championship-winning RB8 at full throttle. For the first time, Salzburg Airport’s tarmac became a motorsport playground, showcasing a thrilling lineup of demo runs, doughnuts, and a drag race featuring giants of racing disciplines. Alongside Verstappen were MotoGP legend Dani Pedrosa, Dakar Rally star Daniel Sanders, and NASCAR driver Connor Zilisch, piloting machines like the WRC M-Sport Puma, Dakar Ford Raptor T1+, and KTM MotoGP bike.
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“It’s always enjoyable to combine sports and showcase different kinds of machines in such a unique way,” said Verstappen. “Driving flat-out on the runway in front of Hangar-7 was a really cool experience.”
At its core, the Hangar-7 celebration was a tribute to the people and machines that define Red Bull's high-octane spirit. Motorsport legends joined forces with aviation aces from The Flying Bulls, who brought their vintage aircraft to life with breathtaking aerobatic displays. From the Lockheed P-38 Lightning to the North American B-25J Mitchell, the skies buzzed with complex formations, loops, and precision stunts.
“It’s always been a dream for us to perform an airshow at our home base,” remarked Eskil Amdal, CEO of The Flying Bulls. “The energy of doing this in such proximity to our story and audience made it unforgettable.”
Adding to the magic, guests enjoyed live tunes inside the newly revitalized Hangar-7. Alpine skiing star-turned-DJ Lucas Pinheiro Braathen teamed up with German DJ Rampa to deliver an electrifying set that capped off a night brimming with energy.
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The runway action saw rare collaboration between top racers from different disciplines. Max Verstappen’s RB8 roared alongside Dani Pedrosa’s KTM MotoGP bike, Dakar Rally machines, and Connor Zilisch’s thundering NASCAR stock car.
“This was my first time driving a NASCAR in Europe,” Zilisch said. “It’s so unique to bring a bit of American racing culture to a completely different setting.”
Meanwhile, Pedrosa reflected on the special energy of Hangar-7. “This track feels alive. Racing here, with so much history and audience engagement, is unlike anything else.”
Even the Red Bull BORA-hansgrohe cycling team contributed to the adrenaline-filled atmosphere. Led by Giro d’Italia stage winner Nico Denz, the cyclists opened the show against a stunning Alpine backdrop.
Beyond motorsport and aviation, legendary athletes showcased their creativity and technical prowess. Danny MacAskill and Matthias Dandois wowed crowds with bike stunts, while freestyle footballer Sean Garnier and dancers from the Red Bull BC One Crew infused rhythm and flow into the celebration.
The diversity of talent extended the evening into a multi-sensory experience, blending high-powered machines, airborne artistry, and human finesse in a way that only Red Bull can deliver.
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Hangar-7 has always been more than just an architectural marvel. It remains a meeting place for art, sport, and innovation, embodying the vision of Dietrich Mateschitz. From its culinary excellence to its awe-inspiring aircraft collection, it continues to inspire visitors and house some of Red Bull’s most creative endeavors.
Now, following its architectural renewal, Hangar-7 stands ready for its next chapter – one that promises even greater heights for this Salzburg landmark. As Max Verstappen aptly put it, “Coming back to Hangar-7 always feels like home – a place where motorsport and so much more come together.”
