F1 Driver Market Buzz: Ford Stands by Red Bull, Hamilton's Ferrari Move Debated
Ford vows commitment to Red Bull regardless of Verstappen's future, while a former Ferrari engineer calls Hamilton's potential instant title win 'demeaning.' The driver market and 2026 preparations are heating up across the grid.
Ford Performance has reiterated its unwavering commitment to its Red Bull Powertrains partnership, stating it will not be swayed by Max Verstappen's future plans. Meanwhile, the F1 paddock is buzzing with debate after a former Ferrari engineer claimed it would be 'demeaning' for the sport if Lewis Hamilton won a championship with Ferrari in his first season, highlighting the intense scrutiny surrounding the 2026 driver market shuffle.
Why it matters:
The comments and announcements highlight the intense focus on the 2026 season and the ongoing driver market saga. Manufacturer commitments and high-profile driver moves are the central narratives shaping the future of the grid, with teams already solidifying their strategies for the next era of F1.
The details:
- Ford's Mark Rushbrook confirmed the manufacturer's partnership with Red Bull is firm, independent of Verstappen's potential departure, signaling long-term stability for the team's power unit project.
- Former Ferrari performance engineer Jock Clear stated an immediate Hamilton title with Ferrari would be 'demeaning' to F1, sparking controversy and adding pressure to the seven-time champion's highly anticipated move.
- Sergio Perez continues to face criticism, with former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya questioning the Mexican driver's repeated complaints about his treatment at Red Bull.
- Team preparations are ramping up, with Williams appointing reserve driver Victor Martins to a support role for Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, while Racing Bulls offered a first look at its 2026 branding through a new team kit reveal.
What's next:
As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on how these dynamics unfold. The driver market will remain a key talking point, especially with Verstappen's contract situation and Hamilton's integration into Ferrari. Teams are already laying the groundwork for 2026, a year set to revolutionize the sport with new regulations and power units, making every strategic decision now crucial for future success.