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3d ago

Verstappen Confirms 2026 With Red Bull as Ford Elevates His Role in New Power Unit Project

Ford underscores Verstappen’s central role as the 2026 project expands across power unit plus car development.

Jim Farley, CEO of Ford, Mark Rushbrook of Ford and Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing talk in the garage prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 07, 2023 in Miami, Florida.
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Overview

  • Max Verstappen is set to race for Red Bull in 2026, with reports placing his contract through 2028.
  • Ex-Red Bull driver David Coulthard said Verstappen will judge the team’s 2026 competitiveness and could exit if struggles persist, noting paddock rumors that the new powertrain may start off behind.
  • Ford CEO Jim Farley described Verstappen as one of the most important pillars for the Red Bull–Ford 2026 power unit effort.
  • Team principal Laurent Mekies said Verstappen is contributing beyond normal driver input, including extensive simulator work and direct collaboration with chassis and power unit engineers.
  • Ford’s role has widened from electrification to combustion components, broader parts production and operational support, with Farley voicing confidence in Mekies’ technical leadership.