Ford Signals Readiness to Deepen Red Bull F1 Partnership for 2026

Ford's global racing director, Mark Rushbrook, has indicated the American automaker is prepared to expand its technical involvement with Red Bull Racing beyond current levels if required to maximize the performance of their new 2026 Formula 1 power unit. The partnership, which sees Ford returning to F1 as a powertrain partner, is currently focused on software, calibration, and advanced manufacturing, with resources committed to future development cycles.

Why it matters:

With sweeping new power unit regulations arriving in 2026, the depth of technical collaboration between manufacturers and teams will be a critical differentiator. Ford's flexible, needs-based approach signals a committed, all-in partnership with Red Bull Powertrains, aiming to avoid the pitfalls of a distant, badge-only engine supply deal. This closer integration could be vital for Red Bull to maintain its competitive edge post-2025, when its current exclusive partnership with Honda's IP officially concludes.

The details:

• In an exclusive interview, Ford's Mark Rushbrook outlined a collaborative philosophy of providing "whatever resources are needed" to ensure success, with engineers already embedded at Red Bull's campus.
• The current technical contributions are split between the electrical and internal combustion sides of the new power unit.
  • Software & Calibration: On-site Ford engineers are primarily focused on the software and calibration of the hybrid system, a complex and performance-defining area.
  • Advanced Manufacturing: For the combustion engine, Ford is leveraging its additive manufacturing (3D printing) capabilities in Dearborn, USA, to produce parts shipped to Red Bull Powertrains in Milton Keynes for testing and development.
• Rushbrook confirmed the work extends beyond the 2026 launch, with teams already "working on the future iterations of this powertrain, getting ready for 2027."

What's next:

Ford's definition of success for 2026 is initially framed around optimization rather than immediate podium counts. Rushbrook stated the goal is to maximize the power unit and team performance, letting the results follow. This pragmatic, engineering-first focus underscores a long-term commitment. The door remains open for Ford's involvement to intensify, with Rushbrook explicitly tying additional resource allocation to the singular goal of winning, suggesting the partnership could become one of the most integrated on the grid by 2026.