[Saba Sports News] It is widely believed that if Red Bull-Ford wants to alleviate the pressure surrounding Max Verstappen’s future, they must remain competitive for the championship in 2026. In this regard, Ford’s Global Director of Racing, Mark Rushbrook, stated that Ford’s partnership with the Red Bull team in F1 does not depend on whether Verstappen stays with the team. Even if this groundbreaking talent leaves, Ford will not withdraw from the collaboration.
Ford’s confidence in the Red Bull team is built on the strength of the team, technology, and personnel, rather than being tied to a single driver. While driver changes are inevitable, Ford’s participation logic has always been clear: they are only interested in projects that start at the front of the grid and have the capability to win. Rushbrook also pointed out that with the significant regulation changes, 2026 will be exceptionally challenging for the entire paddock. Even if the start doesn’t meet expectations, Ford will continue to invest, with the goal of returning to the front row and winning races.
It’s worth noting that Verstappen is confident about the future; he is actively involved in the Red Bull-Ford engine project and has visited the Milton Keynes base multiple times, giving positive feedback on the “crisp” sound of the new engine after ignition.