Red Bull Racing‘s engine partnership with Ford will continue regardless of Max Verstappen‘s future with the team, according to Mark Rushbrook, director of Ford Performance Motorsports. The American manufacturer has made clear that while the four-time world champion remains a vital asset to the project, the collaboration between Ford and Red Bull Powertrains extends far beyond any single driver. With the 2026 power unit regulations looming, Ford’s commitment to its Austrian partner stands firm even amid ongoing speculation about Verstappen’s long-term plans.
Ford’s expanded role in Red Bull’s power unit project
The partnership between Ford and Red Bull Powertrains has evolved significantly since its initial announcement. Originally perceived as a branding exercise with limited technical involvement, Ford’s contribution to the 2026 power unit development has exceeded early expectations. Rushbrook confirmed that the Detroit-based giant has taken on substantial engineering responsibilities within the project, providing expertise and resources that have elevated the entire programme.
Red Bull’s decision to establish its own powertrain division came after uncertainty surrounding Honda’s Formula 1 commitment following the Japanese manufacturer’s initial departure announcement. Since launching Red Bull Powertrains, the Milton Keynes-based operation has transformed into a comprehensive engine facility. Ford represents the fifth engine partner in Red Bull Racing’s history, following Cosworth, Ferrari, Renault, and Honda. The Honda era proved particularly fruitful, delivering 71 Grand Prix victories and six world championships—four drivers’ titles with Verstappen and two constructors’ crowns.
Verstappen’s importance to the programme
When discussing Verstappen’s role within the Ford-Red Bull collaboration, Rushbrook expressed admiration for the Dutchman’s exceptional abilities. “He is an extraordinarily great talent,” Rushbrook stated. “It’s important to have a champion in a car with a Red Bull Ford power source, isn’t it? We believe in the team, we believe in the power source, and we believe in the people designing the car. But ultimately, it comes down to the driver getting everything out of it. And we believe Max is a champion.”
The Ford executive’s comments acknowledge the undeniable value Verstappen brings to any technical partnership. The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the sport’s most complete drivers, combining raw speed with strategic intelligence and mechanical sympathy. His feedback has proven instrumental in development programmes throughout his Red Bull tenure, making him an asset to any power unit manufacturer seeking competitive validation.
Partnership built on team foundations
Despite recognising Verstappen’s significance, Rushbrook emphasised that Ford’s commitment rests primarily on confidence in the broader Red Bull organisation rather than any individual. “Max is an important part of the project, but not to such an extent that we would say: ‘Oh, if he leaves the team, then we will too,'” the Ford Racing director explained. “No, we have confidence in the team and we will find other drivers in the future.”
This stance reflects Ford’s long-term view of the partnership and its assessment of Red Bull’s organisational strength. The team has demonstrated consistent competitiveness across multiple regulation changes and driver line-ups throughout its two-decade Formula 1 history. Christian Horner’s squad possesses infrastructure, technical expertise, and operational excellence that transcend individual personnel, providing stability heading into the major 2026 regulation shift.
Winning ambitions independent of driver line-up
Rushbrook outlined Ford’s competitive objectives, which remain unchanged regardless of who occupies the Red Bull cockpit. “My comments are independent of Max. We want to go to the circuit with the intention to win. We want to be at the front of the grid at all costs. We know it’s an enormous challenge with the completely new engine, but that is our goal. And if we don’t succeed, we will remain committed to doing everything to achieve our objectives.”
The 2026 power unit regulations represent Formula 1’s most significant technical revolution in over a decade. The new generation of engines will feature increased electrical output, sustainable fuels, and revised combustion characteristics that fundamentally alter performance dynamics. Ford and Red Bull Powertrains face established manufacturers with decades of hybrid experience, making the challenge particularly daunting. Yet Rushbrook’s comments suggest Ford views this as a long-term commitment rather than a short-term marketing exercise contingent on immediate success or specific personnel.
What this means for Red Bull’s driver future
Ford’s position provides Red Bull with strategic flexibility as the team navigates questions about its driver line-up beyond the current season. Verstappen’s contract situation has generated persistent speculation, with various teams reportedly interested should he become available. Knowing that Ford remains committed regardless of the Dutchman’s decision removes one variable from Red Bull’s succession planning. The team has already demonstrated willingness to refresh its roster by promoting Liam Lawson alongside Verstappen for 2025, suggesting confidence in its ability to identify and develop talent. Should Verstappen eventually depart, Red Bull can pursue alternative options without jeopardising its engine partnership or Ford’s technical and financial investment in the 2026 power unit programme.
