Status: 03.02.2023 21:36
The US automaker Ford is returning to Formula 1 after more than 20 years – and will be working with the Red Bull team. The traditional brand will be part of the racing series again for the 2026 season. Ford announced this on Friday (02/03/2023)
Ford enters into a partnership with Red Bull. Ford and the team of world champion Max Verstappen announced the strategic partnership on Friday at the sidelines of the presentation of the new Red Bull RB19 in New York. The car manufacturer will therefore contribute its know-how in the areas of battery cell and electric motor technology. The software for the control of the power unit and analytics is also provided. The cooperation also affects Red Bull junior partner AlphaTauri.
The joint work on the engine for 2026, when new regulations take effect, will begin this year. Red Bull is developing the drives for the coming season, which begins on March 5 in Bahrain, in cooperation with Honda at the Powertrains plant in Milton Keynes. Red Bull has also already started work on the 2026 drive.
Electrification a reason for return
Ford CEO Bill Ford spoke of the start of an “exciting new chapter in Ford’s motorsport history.” You are returning to the premier class of motorsport. Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali and FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem welcomed the American manufacturer.
An important reason for Ford’s return is the electrification of the racing series. The desired CO2 neutrality from 2030 and the opening up of new markets, in particular the increased presence on the American home market, would have provided further arguments.
Formula 1 is currently experiencing a boom worldwide, but especially in the USA. The racing series takes this into account: In the coming season there are three US races (Miami, Austin, Las Vegas) on the calendar. The American racing great Michael Andretti is also pushing into the starting field with General Motors (Cadillac). In Logan Sargeant (Williams), a US driver again has a regular cockpit.
Most recently 2004 engine manufacturer for Jordan team
Ford was last involved in Formula 1 in 2004 as the engine manufacturer for the Jordan team around German drivers Nick Heidfeld and Timo Glock. However, the brand with the blue oval has a proud tradition in the premier class. With a total of 176 Grand Prix victories, Ford is the third most successful engine manufacturer in the all-time list behind Ferrari (243) and Mercedes-Benz (212).
Source: sportschau.de