Ford Insists Red Bull Partnership Isn't Tied to Verstappen

Ford Racing global director Mark Rushbrook has made it clear that the company's Formula 1 partnership with Red Bull is not contingent on Max Verstappen remaining with the team. Despite the Dutch driver's generational talent and a contract until 2028, Ford is focused on its long-term investment and the challenge of winning with its all-new power unit in 2026.

Why it matters:

This statement provides a layer of stability for Red Bull amid constant speculation about Verstappen's future. It underscores Ford's serious commitment to F1 as a marketing and technological platform, independent of a single superstar. For Red Bull, it means they have a committed factory partner for their ambitious in-house power unit project, a crucial element for success under the new 2026 regulations.

The details:

• Rushbrook acknowledged Verstappen as a "generational talent" but stated firmly, "it’s not to the point where we would say, ‘Oh, if he’s gone from the team, we are too’.'
• He emphasized Ford's racing DNA: "We want to win no matter what... We want to be at the front of the grid no matter what."
• The 2026 season presents a massive hurdle with sweeping technical changes for both chassis and power units, making the Red Bull-Ford collaboration's debut a critical test.
• Verstappen has shown engagement with the project, visiting the Red Bull Powertrains facility and expressing approval of the engine's "crisp" sound, indicating a positive working relationship despite the lack of a contractual dependency.

Looking ahead:

The immediate future for the Red Bull-Ford alliance is all about on-track performance. While Ford's commitment is unwavering, the pressure is immense to deliver a competitive package from the outset. A strong start in 2026 is not only vital for their championship ambitions but also for ensuring Red Bull remains the destination of choice for top talent, including Verstappen, who holds a performance-related exit clause in his contract.