Formula 1: Ford to team up with Red Bull after 22 years out of sport

Ford are returning to Formula 1 to join forces with Red Bull after more than 22 years out of the sport.

The alliance was announced shortly after Red Bull revealed their new car for the 2023 F1 season at a launch event in New York on Friday.

Ford will be back in the paddock for the first time in over 22 years following their departure in 2004.

“It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership,” said Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal and CEO.

Ford will work to develop the power unit for Red Bull, as well as their sister team, AlphaTauri, from 2026 to at least 2030.

Ford say one of the key reasons behind their return is their “commitment to sustainability” which aligns with F1’s pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030 and to introduce sustainable fuels in F1 cars from 2026.

 

The power unit will meet F1’s new technical regulations, including a 350kW electric motor and a new combustion engine able to accept fully sustainable fuels.

“As an independent engine manufacturer to have the ability to benefit from an OEM’s experience like Ford puts us in good stead against the competition,” added Horner.

“They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself.

“For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting. 2026 is still a while a way, but for us the work already starts as we look to a new future and a continued evolution of Oracle Red Bull Racing.”

F1’s popularity in the United States has soared in recent years with three races now on the 2023 calendar and the Las Vegas circuit making its debut this year.

Las Vegas will host its inaugural GP this season, following the addition of Miami last year. alongside the Circuit of the Americas in Texas, as the popularity of Formula 1 continues to grow.

Ford are the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history with 13 drivers’ championships and 10 constructors’ championships, despite leaving the sport in 2004.