Overview
- Ford Performance chief Mark Rushbrook said the company’s investment with Red Bull is not tied to any one driver and will continue even if Max Verstappen departs.
- Verstappen told Blick he intends to fulfill his Red Bull contract until 2028 and has visited Ford’s powertrain facility several times to track progress on the 2026 engine.
- Rushbrook stressed the partnership’s goal is to win regardless of the driver and acknowledged results under the new regulations will determine early momentum.
- Red Bull-Ford Powertrains will debut in 2026 as Red Bull becomes an engine manufacturer, following Honda’s exit to Aston Martin after an emotional farewell.
- Rookie Isack Hadjar steps up to partner Verstappen and said his mother-manager learned of the promotion before he did, as Damon Hill predicted he will serve in a supporting role.