Ford is returning to Formula 1. The American automaker and Red Bull Powertrains are partnering to develop a next-generation hybrid power unit for regulation 2026. The new engine will power cars for Oracle Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri until at least 2030.
“Ford, alongside world champion Oracle Red Bull Racing, return to the top of the sport, taking Ford’s long tradition of innovation, sustainability and electrification to one of the most visible stages in the world,” said Bill Ford, the automaker’s chief executive.
Ford and Red Bull Powertrains will start developing new power units this year, which must comply with technical regulations that will be implemented. The powertrain will feature a 350 kilowatt electric motor, and must receive continuous fuel. The automaker will provide RBP with technical expertise where it can, including combustion engines, battery cells, electric motor technology, power unit control software and analytics.
“As an independent engine manufacturer having the ability to benefit from an OEM experience like Ford puts us in a good position against the competition,” said Christian Horner, team principal and CEO of Oracle Red Bull Racing.
Ford exited F1 in 2004 with Jaguar and Cosworth operating. However, the automaker was moderately successful in the sport, winning 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships during its campaign.
Ford’s return to Formula 1 comes at a time when the automaker is strongly pushing motorsports during what feels like a racing renaissance. The automaker is involved with grassroots motorsports, WEC, IMSA, WRC, NASCAR, NHRA and more. “We are entering a new era of Ford Performance,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley. The Blue Oval has teased the 2024 Mustang GT3 race car.
Formula 1’s growing popularity in the US has led other American automakers to take an interest in the sport. Last month, Cadillac and Andretti announced their plans to enter F1, added a new team to the paddock. However, the proposed expansion faced pushback.
