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LEGO fans are somewhat confused about two new Speed Champions Formula 1 sets. Unlike most sets in the theme, these are marked for ages 18+ instead of 10+. Surprised? It’s not because they’re harder to build.
What are the sets in question, and what makes them 18+?
The sets in question are 77243 Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Race Car and 77246 Visa Cash App RB VCARB 01 F1 Race Car. These two bad boys sport the 18+ label, but why? LEGO Design Lead Dan Meehan explained it simply: “It’s because of the sponsor logos on those sets and that’s the only reason. It’s not a building complexity issue.”
Julia Goldin, LEGO’s Chief Product & Marketing Officer, backed this up. In an interview, she explained that Red Bull’s branding is legally tied to adult audiences, as it’s considered an 18+ product in many regions. So now you know. LEGO had to follow the rules. They are all about making their sets accessible, but this was non-negotiable.
Sponsor logos: The real dealbreaker
When you think Formula 1, sponsor logos are part of the deal. They're plastered on cars, drivers, and even pit crew gear. For LEGO, skipping Red Bull branding altogether would’ve made the set look… less like a Red Bull F1 car. You can't slap generic stickers on such an iconic design, right?
But LEGO’s no stranger to adapting when branding gets tricky. Take the 10330 McLaren MP4/4 & Ayrton Senna Tribute set. Instead of using Marlboro logos, associated with tobacco, they replaced them with simple McLaren tiles. Smart, right? It’s clear LEGO knows when to bend and when to hold firm on these rules.
Is 18+ always about complexity?
Nope. LEGO has been leaning into the 18+ branding for sets that appeal to adults. Not just because they’re harder to build. Some examples include iconic movie sets, architectural builds, and now these F1 cars. These sets aren’t any tougher than the rest of the Speed Champions wave. If you’ve built a 10+ Speed Champions car, you’ve got this.
The perfect fusion of LEGO and motorsport
These sets aren't just models, they are statements. They demonstrate how LEGO balances creativity, licensing, and legal limitations. If you're a collector or a Formula One fan, these 18+ sets offer unparalleled authenticity. These are more than simply toys; they are display pieces for LEGO and motorsport enthusiasts.
If you're a Formula One enthusiast, the 18+ label is more than just a categorization; it represents precision and authenticity. These sets strike the optimum blend between design, legality, and motorsport passion.
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