P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ford has confirmed it has further increased its involvement with Red Bull ahead of its partnership, which formally begins from next year’s F1 season.
Ford has increased its involvement with Red Bull for the upcoming Formula 1 season, marking its return to the sport since selling its Jaguar Racing outfit in 2004.
Red Bull, with eight Drivers’ Championships and six Constructors’ Championships, will continue to use Honda power units until the end of this year.
Aston Martin, in collaboration with Adrian Newey, will partner with Honda for the 2026 season, underlining the changing landscape of F1 powertrains.
Ford’s interest in F1 is expanding beyond electrification, as expressed by Mark Rushbrook, Ford Global Motorsports’ Director.
Red Bull’s transition to developing its own powertrain for 2026 aligns with Ford’s increased involvement, despite initial expectations being lowered due to their long absence from the sport.
Former Team Principal Christian Horner’s statement that teams like Mercedes should feel “embarrassed” if Red Bull’s package outperforms them sets the stage for an unpredictable season.
The 2026 F1 regulations will bring a 50-50 split between electric and internal combustion power, a shift that both Red Bull and Ford are adapting to as they navigate new territories in the sport.
