Porsche will not become a shareholder of Red Bull
While all indicators were pointing towards a future partnership between Porsche and Red Bull Racing, this potential agreement hit a snag last weekend.
After the announcement, at the end of August, of Audi’s arrival in Formula 1 starting from the 2026 season, all eyes turned to the sister brand, Porsche, which is also expected as a potential entry in the premier category of motorsport at the same deadline.
A partnership with Red Bull seemed to be on track. This would have allowed the Austrian team to benefit from the striking power of an iconic brand in motorsports, whether it be in terms of engineering, finance, or marketing. It would have also provided the German brand with the support and experience of a multiple Formula 1 world championship-winning team. Additionally, Porsche could have relied on Red Bull Powertrains’ engine department, avoiding the need to start from scratch in designing their future power unit.
A few days before the Dutch Grand Prix, some doubts from Red Bull emerged. Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, in particular, expressed their concerns about the possible loss of independence of the energy drink brand’s team in favor of Porsche. Indeed, it was planned for the Stuttgart-based brand to acquire 50% of the team’s shares in addition to supplying the engines for the Milton Keynes-based team.
Last weekend, it was once again the Austrian sports advisor who came forward, stating that this change in shareholding would not take place: « Porsche will not become one of our shareholders. » However, this statement does not completely close the door to a partnership with a motor supplier, but it will have to be done under certain conditions.
We have the capabilities to build our own engine. We have invested, we have the infrastructure, the staff, and the resources. We are independent and wish to remain so. If a manufacturer wants to join us, it will be by respecting our DNA.
Red Bull therefore seems to be standing firm on its positions, and a closer partnership with the sports brand of the Volkswagen group appears to be moving further away day by day.
