Who is Ford replacing in F1?
Context: Ford’s return to Formula 1
Historical perspective
Replacing Honda: What is changing?
Before moving to the list, here is a concise overview of the key shifts that have fueled the change.
What follows outlines the main elements of the transition and what it means for teams and fans.
- Replacing entity: Honda’s role in Red Bull Powertrains will be superseded by Ford as the engine supplier from 2026 onward.
- Affected teams: Red Bull Racing and its closely associated operations (with potential extension to the team's sister outfit) are central to the plan, subject to the final terms of the agreement.
- Technology focus: A next-generation hybrid power unit will be developed under Ford’s leadership, integrated with Red Bull’s Powertrains facilities and engineering workforce.
- Timeline: Official confirmation has set 2026 as the start of Ford’s power-unit supply, with preparations and homologation work beginning in the years leading up to 2026.
- Regulatory approval: The move requires FIA homologation and compliance with F1’s technical and sporting regulations, as with any new power unit supplier.
What this means for the sport and its stakeholders
- Competitive balance: A new manufacturer power unit could shift on-track performance and reliability across Red Bull’s quartet of cars, reshaping the sprint-to-win dynamics in multiple races per season.
- Engineering collaboration: The partnership blends Ford’s engineering resources with Red Bull’s race-proven powertrain integration expertise, potentially accelerating development cycles.
- Jobs and supply chains: Ford’s F1 program is likely to create high-skilled jobs and bolster technology sectors connected to motorsport hardware and software.
- Brand and fan engagement: Ford’s return to F1 at the power unit level is a significant branding opportunity, with fans watching for signs of performance gains and technological milestones.
Summary
