Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen confirmed during the Hungarian Grand Prix that he will continue driving for Red Bull in the 2026 season, despite recent speculation linking him to Mercedes after he was seen with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. Verstappen’s commitment is especially significant as Red Bull prepares for a major transition in engine supply, partnering with Ford for the 2026 power unit. Ford CEO Jim Farley recently highlighted Verstappen as a vital contributor to the partnership’s success.
Red Bull’s current engine partnership with Honda is set to end after the 2025 season, following Honda’s announcement in 2020 expressing an interest in withdrawing from F1. Since then, Red Bull has heavily invested in its own engine division, Red Bull PowerTrains (RBPT), with technical support from Honda continuing through 2025. The shift toward a partnership with Ford in 2026 is expected to bring new expertise, particularly in battery cells and electric motor technology, aligning with new F1 regulations for that year.
Ford and Red Bull Collaborate on New Hybrid Power Unit for 2026
Starting in 2026, Red Bull and Ford will jointly develop a new hybrid power unit featuring an equal split of power delivered from the internal combustion engine and electric motors. The power unit will no longer include the MGU-H component found in current designs, instead utilizing a larger battery pack and motor for enhanced electric performance.
Laurent Mekies, Red Bull’s Team Principal, together with Ford CEO Jim Farley, recently discussed this key collaboration in an interview with Sky Sports F1. Farley emphasized the indispensable role Verstappen has played in the development process. He described the Dutch driver as a foundational figure for the power unit’s success, stating,
“Oh, I think this is one of the most important pillars or foundations for the PU’s success. And talking to Max, I think we at Ford have really grown our respect for Max, watching him this year.”
Farley further applauded Verstappen’s professionalism and composure, remarking,
“The way he has provided stability without drama in an environment where we’re all just trying to do our jobs. And I could really see that in his eyes today versus last year,”
highlighting Verstappen’s steady commitment amid the development challenges.
Max Verstappen’s Direct Involvement in Power Unit Development
The 2026 power unit will be the first to be fully developed by RBPT in collaboration with Ford, marking a major milestone for Red Bull’s engine program. Laurent Mekies outlined Verstappen’s deep engagement in this process, noting that his involvement goes beyond simply requesting performance data. Mekies explained,
“Max Verstappen is doing a lot more than just asking for the numbers [at the Red Bull Powertrains building]. You would be surprised. Max is giving so much to the projects also outside of the car.”
Mekies described how Verstappen actively participates in simulator testing and works closely with engineers on both sides of the partnership, focusing on optimizing power and downforce for the new cars.
“So, he’s not just asking for the numbers. He’s testing the car in the simulators. He’s working with engineers on both sides of the fence to understand how do we develop these 2026 cars, where do we try to get the power, where do we try to get the downforce? That’s how central to the project he is,”
Mekies added.
Verstappen’s recent visit to the RBPT facility, shared by Red Bull on social media, further underscores his active role in shaping the future technology that will power the team’s 2026 campaign.
Context of Engine Supplier Changes Leading to Ford Collaboration
Although Honda powered Verstappen to four world championships, the Japanese manufacturer chose to exit the works engine supply role by the end of 2025. By that point, Red Bull had already invested millions into RBPT to secure its powertrain future. Honda, meanwhile, has struck a deal to supply engines exclusively to Aston Martin starting in 2026, leaving Red Bull to forge its own path with Ford.
The Ford partnership brings critical expertise, especially in electrification and battery systems, which will be essential under the new rules that aim to balance internal combustion power with hybrid electric components. This collaboration represents a strategic move for Red Bull as it seeks to maintain its competitive edge in Formula 1’s rapidly evolving technical landscape.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Verstappen’s Role on Red Bull’s 2026 Prospects
Max Verstappen’s active involvement in the development of Red Bull and Ford’s combined power unit strengthens the team’s preparation for the regulatory shifts in 2026. His input not only accelerates technical progress but also fosters stability within the program during a critical transitional phase. As the partnership continues, Verstappen’s leadership on and off the track is likely to play a crucial role in Red Bull’s bid to sustain its dominance in F1.
With the new power unit project advancing and Verstappen firmly committed to the team, Red Bull is positioning itself to remain a front-runner in Formula 1 amid these significant changes, while Ford’s expertise in electrification is expected to deliver vital performance gains in the hybrid era.
