Mekies Reveals Key Update in Red Bull-Ford Engine Development for 2026
Red Bull Racing's 2026 engine, developed in partnership with Ford, is now undergoing critical peak stress testing, confirmed team principal Laurent Mekies. This ambitious project aims to have the power unit ready for initial track testing by late January, marking Red Bull's first foray into in-house engine manufacturing. Mekies called it an 'extreme' challenge as the team prepares for the new 2026 F1 regulations alongside other incoming manufacturers like Audi.
Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies has confirmed that the team's highly anticipated 2026 engine, developed in collaboration with Ford, is currently undergoing peak stress testing. This marks a significant milestone as Red Bull prepares to build its own power unit for the first time, a venture Mekies describes as an 'extreme' challenge in recent Formula 1 history.
Why it matters:
This move represents a monumental shift for Red Bull, transitioning from a customer engine team to a full-fledged power unit manufacturer. Successfully developing their own engine with Ford could solidify their long-term independence and competitive edge, crucial for sustained dominance in the sport. The 2026 regulations will feature a new engine formula, making this homegrown effort a potential game-changer against established manufacturers.
The details:
- Dyno Testing: Mekies revealed on Red Bull's 'Talking Bull' podcast that the power unit is actively undergoing testing on the team’s dynamometer.
- Peak Stress Phase: The engine is in its 'peak stress moment' to ensure it's ready for track deployment.
- Timeline: The team is pushing to have the engine ready for initial testing by the end of January 2026.
- Collaboration with Ford: This project is a joint effort with Ford, marking the first time Red Bull will produce its own power unit after its agreement with Honda concludes at the end of 2025.
- 'Crazy Challenge': Mekies emphasized the ambitious nature of the project, stating, 'There is no crazier challenge than Oracle Red Bull Racing with Ford deciding to do its own engine.' He added, 'It’s typical Red Bull crazy stuff to do.'
The big picture:
The 2026 F1 season will introduce a new era of power unit regulations, drawing significant interest from both existing and new manufacturers. Red Bull Powertrains, with Ford, is one of several new or re-evaluated engine projects:
- Audi: Also set to join the grid as a new power unit manufacturer in 2026.
- Cadillac: Will initially use Ferrari power upon their grid arrival, with plans to introduce their own unit by 2028.
- Alpine: Has opted to abandon its in-house power unit development, reportedly in favor of a Mercedes unit.
- Aston Martin: Will switch to Honda as their power unit supplier for 2026, partnering with Red Bull's current engine provider.
What's next:
The successful integration of the Red Bull-Ford power unit will be critical for the team's performance under the new regulations. With other teams making significant changes to their engine strategies, the 2026 season promises a reshaped competitive landscape. The upcoming months will be crucial for Red Bull Powertrains as they push to resolve any remaining challenges and prepare their engine for its track debut, aiming to maintain their championship-winning form with an entirely new powertrain.