The collaboration between Ford and Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 engine is already in full swing, according to Ford CEO Jim Farley. This partnership marks a significant shift in Red Bull’s strategy post-2025, following the impending end of their relationship with Honda. Red Bull is setting its sights on competing with a power unit of its own creation, aided by the expertise of the renowned car manufacturer Ford.
Red Bull’s Dr. Helmut Marko shared optimism about the project last week. “Even though we are still a long way from being able to compete competitively, everything is going according to plan and the performance curve is right,” Marko stated, dispelling concerns about the potential initial competitiveness of Red Bull Powertrains.
Farley, quoted in the Dutch magazine Formule 1, revealed the depth of collaboration between Ford and Red Bull. “2026 still seems far away, but we are already working well together,” he said. “We are already busy. I am very pleased with the progress we have made so far.” This joint venture represents a significant step in both Ford’s re-entry into F1 and Red Bull’s evolution as a competitive force.
The publication reports that Ford has already deployed a team of engineers to Milton Keynes, the heart of Red Bull Powertrains, at Red Bull’s F1 headquarters. Ford’s focus is reportedly on the hybrid elements of the 2026 power unit, a critical aspect of modern F1 engineering.
Farley’s involvement goes beyond mere oversight; he mentioned his direct interactions with Red Bull’s chief technical officer, Adrian Newey. “I have already visited there myself and have spoken a lot with Adrian Newey,” Farley shared. “Before 2026, although it will take some time, there is plenty of work to be done, but we are well on schedule. I am very happy with the progress we are already making together.”
