Red Bull and Ford's fresh Formula One engine may fuel triumph beyond 2026.
In a strategic move to gain full control over their power units, Red Bull Racing has announced that they will be manufacturing their own Formula One engines. This decision comes as the sport prepares for the 2026 season, which will be run under new rules emphasising engine power and electrification.
Until now, Red Bull has relied on engines supplied by manufacturers like Renault, Honda, and others. However, these partnerships limited their ability to optimise the entire car package, as these suppliers also served other teams or their own works teams. By building their own engines via their Red Bull Powertrains division, in partnership with Ford, Red Bull aims to integrate power unit and chassis development tightly, a key advantage traditionally held by factory teams.
The partnership with Ford is particularly beneficial given the automaker's interest in developing expertise on battery technology, motors, and energy efficiency. These are areas where Ford is significantly contributing to Red Bull's power unit efforts, aligning with the 2026 Formula 1 power unit regulations' focus on hybrid technology and electrification.
Max Verstappen, a driver for Oracle Red Bull Racing, has also been preparing for the upcoming season. He recently engaged in a simulated race experience for the Belgium GP, which was featured in Red Bull Racing Road Trips S2 E3. The purpose of the simulation was not explicitly stated as being related to the new engine projects, but it serves as an example of Red Bull's commitment to innovation and advanced training methods.
Red Bull's decision to become an engine manufacturer stems from the desire to control their own technical destiny to maintain a competitive advantage, particularly under the new technical rules that elevate the importance of the power unit’s performance and efficiency. With the 2026 Formula One season fast approaching, anticipation for the new generation of engines and Red Bull's performance under their own power is high.
