Ford believes that the growing popularity of F1 cannot be ignored and is considering the possibility of participating in F1.
Rumors have been circulating since late last year that Ford is in talks with Red Bull Racing about a possible partnership from 2026, when F1 will introduce new power unit regulations.
So far, the famous Blue Oval has said nothing about its intentions. But with the sport growing exponentially under Liberty Media’s leadership and gaining a foothold in the United States, Ford’s view of F1 is ‘must see’.
Ford Performance boss Mark Rushbrook said: “Formula 1 is definitely growing strong both in America and around the world.
“What they’ve done well is create great racing and great competition, which is still the pinnacle, but they’ve been able to reach new audiences with things like ‘Drive to Survive’.”
“As a company, we go to the races not only for innovation, technology transfer and learning opportunities, but also for marketing reasons.
As for rumors of a Ford-Red Bull partnership, Mark Rushbrook has neither confirmed nor denied the rumors.
“We don’t comment on speculation, but it’s the same with every series out there,” said Mark Rushbrook.
“It’s our responsibility to study them, understand them, and then decide whether they make sense or not.”
Developing the legendary Cosworth engine, Ford has written several important chapters in Grand Prix racing history.
Ford entered the Grand Prix in 2004, the last year it owned the Jaguar team. Since then, Ford has shifted its focus to the World Rally Championship.
Despite the paradigm shift in the auto industry towards electric mobility, Ford believes the advent of sustainable fuels, especially as F1 transitions with new engine rules for 2026, will see value in racing categories outside of that discipline as well. I think there is.
“Sustainable fuels are certainly something we are interested in, but it is something we are already doing in other series,” explains Mark Rushbrook.
“It was introduced last year in the WRC, and it was a big harvest for us.”
“The vehicles we sell will transition to full electric vehicles sooner in some regions, while others will remain electric for longer.”
“But we want to be a more sustainable company that produces sustainable vehicles, not just electric vehicles, but also ICE.”
“We encourage all series to switch to more sustainable fuels, whether they participate or not.”
