Ford in F1 in 2026: a clear vision, between sustainable commitment and electrification
With a year to go before its return to Formula 1 via a partnership with Red Bull Powertrains, Ford has reaffirmed its ambition to remain in the sport for the long term. While competition is the order of the day on the track, the future of F1, according to the American manufacturer, will necessarily involve electrification.
A strategic return alongside Red Bull. Ford is actively preparing its return to Formula 1, scheduled for 2026, alongside Red Bull Powertrains. Together, they will develop the engine that will power the future Milton Keynes-based single-seaters. This new power unit, the result of 100% in-house development, will mark a first for Red Bull, as it takes a decisive technical step by becoming a full-fledged engine manufacturer.
For Ford, this project is part of a long-term strategy, as confirmed by Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance, in an interview with RacingNews365. « That’s clearly our goal. We are working with all the departments involved to build a strong vision for the future of this sport. »
Rivals on the track, partners off it
Aware of the issues that go beyond just the sports competition, Ford is betting on collaboration between manufacturers to ensure the balance and longevity of the championship. We all know that, to ensure the well-being of Formula 1, cooperation is necessary, while maintaining intense competition on the track. We must be rivals on the circuit but partners off it.
This desire to combine technological confrontation and collective interest is part of a current trend in F1: to make performance, innovation, and sustainable development coexist. An approach that Ford intends to fully embody from its arrival in 2026.
Electrification as the cornerstone of the project
Among the major debates within the paddock, the question of returning to 100% thermal engines, even powered by sustainable fuels, divides manufacturers. Ford, on its part, takes an unequivocal stance: electrification is a non-negotiable condition. “At Ford, we believe there must be some form of electrification,” states Rushbrook.
« This is precisely what attracted us to the new 2026 regulations. It’s not necessarily an exact 50-50 balance between thermal engines and electric engines, but as long as we have the opportunity to learn, contribute, and transfer our expertise to our production cars, we will remain a fully committed player. »
