Red Bull to launch RB2 in Bahrain.

Red Bull Racing have confirmed that they will launch their 2006 challenger in Bahrain, prior to the Bahrain Grand Prix, the opening event in next year's FIA Formula One World Championship.

A spokesperson for the Milton Keynes based squad told Reuters that the official unveiling would probably take place on the Thursday.

The new Ferrari powered RB2 meanwhile looks set to make its track debut at the end of December - and early indications are positive.

"The 2006 car is progressing well and I'm sure will be step forward for us," said team boss, Christian Horner, who has since managed to secure the services of top McLaren designer, Adrian Newey. Newey will join the team in February.

Who will partner David Coulthard in the lead Red Bull team, however is still unknown.

"An announcement will probably be towards the end of the month, perhaps the beginning of next month," added Horner.

Vitantonio Liuzzi and Christian Klien are the two candidates, whoever is passed over, will link up with Scott Speed at the former Minardi team, now also owned by Red Bull and set to be known as Squadra Toro Rosso in 2006 - Italian for 'Team Red Bull' - effectively the 'junior' outfit.