Does Ford still have an F1 team?
No, Ford does not currently have a Formula 1 (F1) racing team. The American automaker last participated in F1 as an engine supplier in 2004 before withdrawing from the sport.
Ford's History in Formula 1
Ford has had a long and storied history in Formula 1 racing, dating back to the 1960s. The company first entered the sport as an engine supplier, providing engines to various teams over the years. Ford-powered cars won numerous races and championships, including the Drivers' and Constructors' titles in 1968 and 1969 with the Lotus team.
In the 1990s, Ford returned to F1 as a full works team, establishing Jaguar Racing in 1999. However, the Jaguar team struggled to achieve success, and Ford eventually sold the team to Red Bull in 2004, marking the end of their direct involvement in Formula 1.
Why Did Ford Leave Formula 1?
There were a few key reasons why Ford decided to withdraw from Formula 1 in the mid-2000s:
- Lack of success: The Jaguar Racing team failed to achieve the desired results, with no race wins and only a few podium finishes during their time in the sport.
- High costs: Competing in Formula 1 is an extremely expensive endeavor, and Ford's investment in the Jaguar team did not yield the desired return.
- Shifting priorities: Ford was undergoing a major restructuring and cost-cutting initiative at the time, and the company decided to focus its resources on its core automotive business rather than motorsports.
Since their withdrawal from F1, Ford has not returned to the sport as a manufacturer or engine supplier. The company has instead focused its motorsports efforts on other racing series, such as NASCAR, the World Rally Championship, and various sports car championships.
The Future of Ford in Formula 1
While Ford has not been involved in Formula 1 for nearly two decades, there have been occasional rumors and speculation about the company potentially returning to the sport. However, as of 2025, there are no concrete plans or announcements from Ford regarding a return to Formula 1 racing.
The decision to re-enter F1 would likely depend on a variety of factors, including the potential for success, the cost-benefit analysis, and the overall strategic priorities of the company. For now, Ford remains focused on other motorsports endeavors and its core automotive business.
Why is Ford not in F1 anymore?
It's becoming harder and harder for car manufacturers to justify the expense of competing in F1, doesn't matter if it's an American, Japanese or European brand. Ford pulled out of F1 because of the expense nearly 20 years ago, and costs have skyrocketed since.
Why is Toyota not in F1?
In light of the parent company's first ever financial loss in 2009, Toyota decided to withdraw from Formula One with immediate effect on 4 November 2009. Toyota's 2010 car the TF110 was almost fully developed. There were two prepared prototype chassis of the TF110.
Is Red Bull F1 switching to Ford?
The new partnership, announced in February 2023 to coincide with Red Bull's season launch, confirmed Ford's commitment through the next cycle of power unit regulations, from 2026 to 2030. The deal works for both sides.
Does Ford still compete in F1?
After more than two decades, Ford is returning to Formula 1. The iconic American automaker and Red Bull Powertrains are entering into a long-term strategic technical partnership for the development of the next-gen hybrid power unit to be used from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards.
