[Saba Sports News] Ford responded to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff’s description of the Red Bull-Ford engine project as “climbing Mount Everest,” stating that this assessment is not an exaggeration. However, they emphasized that the project is currently making good progress and that any initial gaps will not become a decisive obstacle.
Previously, Wolff stated in an interview that the difficulty of engineering the power unit is comparable to reaching the summit of Mount Everest. He noted that Red Bull-Ford is up against established manufacturers with decades of engine experience, and starting from scratch under such complex regulations is not easy. He also reminded the public not to underestimate Red Bull’s execution capability, as this team was once mocked in its early days in F1 but ultimately earned a wealth of honors.
In response, Mark Rushbrook, head of Ford motorsport globally, acknowledged Wolff’s judgment and described it as a completely new starting point, but he emphasized that it does not mean they are beginning from a blank slate. The project brings together experienced engineers from various top racing programs, and they believe the current state of preparation is positive. Of course, the true answers will only be revealed once the cars hit the track.
In the writer’s view, the new regulations in 2026 represent a reshuffling of the field. While existing experience is certainly important, it cannot simply be a matter of replicating past advantages. Now, the Red Bull team has no choice but to push forward with all their might.