Red Bull and Ford Team Up for F1 2026: A New Era of Hybrid Power
Ford and Red Bull Engine Partnership
In a groundbreaking collaboration set to redefine Formula 1’s power unit technology, Ford and Red Bull Powertrains have joined forces for the highly anticipated 2026 F1 season. This partnership will see Ford return to the pinnacle of motorsport, aligning with Oracle Red Bull Racing and the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls team to develop an advanced hybrid power unit that meets the future demands of the sport.
A Commercial and Technical Powerhouse
Announced in early 2023, the Ford-Red Bull alliance is more than just a branding exercise; it’s a commercial and technical partnership designed to push the boundaries of performance, sustainability, and innovation. Red Bull Powertrains, operating out of its Milton Keynes headquarters, will collaborate with Ford’s technical expertise. Together, they aim to build a power unit that not only meets the new FIA regulations but also integrates power unit control software and analytics, battery cell and electric motor technology.
Next-Gen Hybrid Power Unit for 2026
At the heart of this project is the next-generation hybrid power unit, which aligns with F1’s ambitious sustainability goals. The 1.6-liter V-6 internal combustion engine will remain a core component, but significant changes to the powertrain will enhance efficiency and performance. A major shift in 2026’s regulations includes an increased amount of energy recovery from braking, allowing teams to maximize energy efficiency through an upgraded MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit - Kinetic) system.
Ford’s vast expertise in hybrid and electric vehicle technology will play a crucial role in optimizing this energy recovery system, ensuring Red Bull’s power unit remains at the forefront of the competition. This aligns perfectly with Ford’s ongoing commitment to EV innovation and sustainable mobility.
Pioneering Sustainable Fuel in F1
Another major focus of the 2026 regulations is the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuel. Ford’s engineering teams, in collaboration with Red Bull Powertrains, are actively working to integrate sustainable biofuels into the combustion engine. This initiative is part of Formula 1’s wider push toward carbon neutrality by 2030, making Ford’s involvement particularly significant given its long-standing efforts in alternative fuel research.
OEM Capabilities and In-House Development
A key advantage of this partnership is Red Bull’s ability to function as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). By developing its own power unit in-house, Red Bull gains complete control over engine integration, design, and optimization. This approach differs from previous reliance on external manufacturers and allows Red Bull and Ford to tailor the power unit specifically for their RB chassis, ensuring peak performance.
Ford’s Return to Formula 1
Ford’s return to Formula 1 through this partnership is a full-circle moment for the American automaker, which has a rich history in the sport. With 10 Constructors’ Championships and 13 Drivers’ Championships to its name, Ford remains one of the most successful engine suppliers in F1 history. This strategic move signals Ford’s confidence in its hybrid and EV technology, leveraging motorsport as a platform to develop future innovations for road cars.
A Power Duo for the Future
The Ford-Red Bull partnership is a testament to the evolution of Formula 1 as a hub for technological advancement, sustainability, and high-performance engineering. With F1's shift towards a more sustainable and electrified future, the countdown to 2026 begins, and all eyes will be on Red Bull and Ford to see if this partnership can lead to championship glory.