F1 Ford: Why Ford Is Joining Formula 1 With Red Bull From 2026

Ford announced in early 2023 that it would enter Formula 1 from the 2026 season as a technical partner to Red Bull Powertrains, supplying expertise and development support for Red Bull’s next-generation power unit.

Under the agreement:

• The engines will be branded Red Bull Ford Powertrains
• They will power Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls
• Red Bull remains the lead designer and manufacturer of the power unit
• Ford contributes technical expertise rather than operating as a standalone engine supplier

This partnership begins when Formula 1 introduces new hybrid power unit regulations in 2026, replacing the current 1.6-litre turbo-hybrid formula introduced in 2014.

Formula 1’s 2026 regulations were a decisive factor in Ford’s return. According to FIA regulations, the new power units will feature:

• A continued 1.6-litre turbocharged internal combustion engine
• A significantly increased electrical output from the MGU-K
• The removal of the MGU-H
• A greater emphasis on sustainable fuels
• Simplified and cost-controlled engine architecture

These changes align closely with Ford’s broader engineering priorities, particularly in electrification, battery development, and software-driven performance.

Unlike previous F1 eras, the 2026 regulations are explicitly designed to attract new manufacturers while controlling costs and improving sporting parity.

Ford’s involvement goes well beyond engine badging. Red Bull Powertrains remains responsible for overall power unit design and production at its Milton Keynes facility, but Ford provides support in several key technical areas.

Technical Areas of Ford’s Contribution

• Battery cell technology and energy storage
• Electric motor development
• Power unit control software
• Simulation, data analysis, and manufacturing techniques

This model allows Ford to contribute expertise relevant to its global road car programmes while avoiding the need to operate a full standalone F1 engine project.

Red Bull’s engine strategy has evolved rapidly since Honda announced its initial F1 withdrawal plans in 2021. After a proposed partnership with Porsche collapsed due to governance and control issues, Red Bull sought a partner that would:

• Respect Red Bull’s independence over engine development
• Add technical value without requiring ownership or operational control
• Align with the long-term direction of Formula 1

Ford met those criteria. Unlike Porsche’s proposed structure, the Ford partnership allows Red Bull to retain full operational authority over Red Bull Powertrains while benefiting from external expertise.

Ford’s return is notable given its deep historical footprint in Formula 1. Despite leaving the sport in 2004, Ford remains one of the most successful engine manufacturers in F1 history.

Ford’s Formula 1 Record (Pre-2005)

• 13 Drivers’ World Championships
• 10 Constructors’ Championships
• 174 Grand Prix victories
• Third most successful engine manufacturer, behind Ferrari and Mercedes

Ford’s success was largely built around its partnership with Cosworth, most famously through the DFV engine, which debuted in 1967 and became the most successful engine in Formula 1 history.

The DFV powered multiple teams to championships across three decades and helped define the sport’s competitive structure during the naturally aspirated era.

Ford’s last direct involvement in Formula 1 came through its ownership of Jaguar Racing, which competed from 2000 to 2004 with limited success. In late 2004, Ford sold the team, which became Red Bull Racing from the 2005 season.

Two decades later, Ford is returning not as a team owner, but as a technical partner to the very organisation that emerged from its previous F1 exit. The contrast in approach reflects lessons learned from earlier involvement and the evolution of Formula 1’s commercial and technical environment.

Ford joining Formula 1 with Red Bull strengthens the championship at a time when manufacturer commitment is critical.

Why the Partnership Matters to F1

• Reinforces F1’s appeal to major global automotive brands
• Supports the credibility of the 2026 regulation reset
• Enhances competition among engine manufacturers
• Expands Formula 1’s footprint in the North American market

With Audi also entering Formula 1 in 2026 and Honda remaining involved with Aston Martin, the sport is entering one of its most manufacturer-rich periods in decades.

It is important to distinguish confirmed facts from speculation:

• Ford will not operate its own F1 team
• Ford will not be the sole engine manufacturer
• Red Bull Powertrains remains the primary constructor of the power unit
• The partnership is confirmed from 2026 onwards, aligned with FIA regulations

Performance expectations remain unknown until on-track competition begins, and no claims about competitive advantage can be substantiated ahead of the regulation change.

The Ford F1 return through Red Bull represents a strategically timed re-entry shaped by new regulations, modern power unit philosophy, and a fundamentally different partnership model from Ford’s past involvement. By aligning with Red Bull Powertrains for the 2026 season, Ford positions itself within Formula 1’s next technical cycle while leveraging its historical legacy without repeating earlier structural mistakes.

As Formula 1 moves into a more electrified and manufacturer-focused future, the Ford and Red Bull partnership stands as one of the most significant developments shaping the sport beyond 2025.

When is Ford joining Formula 1?

Ford will join Formula 1 in the 2026 season, coinciding with the introduction of new FIA power unit regulations.

Is Ford supplying engines to Red Bull?

Ford is a technical partner, not a standalone engine supplier. Red Bull Powertrains designs and builds the engines, with Ford contributing expertise.

Which teams will use Red Bull Ford engines?

The engines will power Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls from 2026.

Why did Ford leave Formula 1 originally?

Ford exited Formula 1 after the 2004 season following limited success with Jaguar Racing and shifting corporate priorities.

How successful has Ford been in Formula 1 historically?

Ford has won 13 Drivers’ Championships, 10 Constructors’ Championships, and 174 Grand Prix victories, making it one of the most successful engine manufacturers in F1 history.