Overview

• Ford has confirmed its partnership with Red Bull Powertrains is not contingent on Max Verstappen staying with the team, underscoring a long-term commitment.
• The collaboration marks Ford's return to Formula 1 engine development after more than two decades, with work already underway on the 2026 power unit.
• Speculation continues around Verstappen's future, despite his contract running through 2028, with rumors of a performance-based exit clause and links to Mercedes and Aston Martin.
• Red Bull's recent dip in performance has fueled questions about team stability, but Ford expressed confidence in the technical team's ability to adapt and compete.
• Ford's leadership highlighted that the partnership was never centered on any single individual, including Verstappen, Christian Horner, or Adrian Newey.