P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ricciardo and Verstappen reunion teased
Ford Racing has teased their 2026 season launch, featuring drivers Daniel Ricciardo, Max Verstappen, and Isack Hadjar, causing excitement among fans. Verstappen and Hadjar will be part of Red Bull’s driver lineup for 2026, under the leadership of team principal Laurent Mekies. With new F1 regulations in place, Red Bull is set to develop their own power units in collaboration with Ford, moving on from their Honda partnership. Ricciardo, now a global ambassador for Ford Racing, will not be part of this power unit venture with Red Bull.
The teaser video hints at a grand 2026 season launch event on January 15 in Michigan, showcasing Ford Racing’s projects and their partnership with Red Bull. Verstappen’s appearance in the video suggests a possible reunion with Ricciardo at the launch party. Fans are eagerly anticipating the event, with some expressing excitement over the potential reunion of “Maxiel” and questioning how to secure an invite. Ricciardo’s new role with Ford Racing as a global ambassador has kept him active in the racing community since his F1 exit in 2024.
The Australian driver has been visible on Ford’s social media platforms and participated in events like the 2025 Raptor Rally, showing his adventurous side. Ricciardo’s highlight reel from the rally displayed his thrill for driving the Ford F-150 Raptor in Lake Havasu. Overall, Red Bull’s driver lineup completion for the 2026 F1 season signals a new chapter in their partnership with Ford Racing and piques interest in the upcoming launch event.
