Albon in action as Red Bull run 2020 F1 car at Silverstone

Red Bull is the latest team to conduct a test outing ahead of the start of the 2020 Formula 1 season next week.

Unlike its major rivals, Red Bull has opted to run its 2020 car on-track at Silverstone, becoming the only one of F1’s big three teams to do so prior to the Austrian Grand Prix on July 5.

Mercedes Ferrari and Renault have all carried out private test days with their 2018 cars in recent weeks, giving them the freedom to complete unlimited mileage.

However, under F1’s heavily-restricted testing regulations, teams are limited to running their current cars for two ‘promotional’ events, and only 100km of mileage is permitted on demonstration Pirelli tyres.

Red Bull has subsequently decided to utilise its second filming day for the test, with Alexander Albon shaking down its RB16 challenger at the home of the British Grand Prix.

Back on track! #ChargeOn pic.twitter.com/McNywAJKTh

— Aston Martin Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) June 25, 2020

Racing Point and AlphaTauri are the only other teams to have conducted similar runs with their 2020 cars.

Max Verstappen completed Red Bull's first filming day at Silverstone back in February. With Albon returning to action behind the wheel of F1 machinery for the first time since pre-season testing in Barcelona, the Dutchman will have to wait until the Austrian Grand Prix for his first chance to run in an F1 car since lockdown started. 

Red Bull is also using the test as an opportunity to practice operating their cars while observing F1’s strict new safety measures that will be implemented when the delayed campaign begins next month.

Both Albon and Red Bull mechanics were pictured wearing face masks in the garage, while social distancing guidelines are being followed where possible.

We're back but not quite as we know it! Promise there are some big grins under there! #ChargeOn pic.twitter.com/bLTzDqXusA

— Aston Martin Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) June 25, 2020