Ford’s Return to F1
Ford has announced plans to return to Formula 1 (F1) starting from the 2026 season. This marks their comeback after a hiatus of 20 years since their last participation in 2004. Ford’s decision to join F1 is driven by the appeal of F1’s future engine regulations, which feature increased electrical power and the use of 100% sustainable fuels. The commitment of F1 to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 and the introduction of sustainable fuels in F1 cars from 2026 were also important factors in Ford’s decision to enter F1.
Partnership with Red Bull Racing
Ford will be returning to F1 through a powertrain partnership with Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Alpha Tauri. This partnership will focus on battery and hybrid technology, aligning with the FIA and F1’s recent finalization of the 2026 power unit regulations that include increased electrical power and sustainable fuels. Ford’s return to F1 is seen as a significant development, as it vindicates F1’s change of engine rules for 2026.
Ford’s Heritage in Racing
Ford is a global brand with a rich heritage in racing and the automotive world . Their entry into F1 is seen as a valuable addition to the sport, given F1’s platform with over half a billion fans worldwide. Ford’s decision to join F1 is not solely driven by brand marketing and image reasons but also by the tangible benefits F1 can bring to their production cars.
In summary, Ford has announced its return to Formula 1 from the 2026 season, driven by the appeal of F1’s future engine regulations and the commitment to sustainability. They will be partnering with Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Alpha Tauri, focusing on battery and hybrid technology . Ford’s entry into F1 is seen as a valuable addition to the sport, given their global brand and rich heritage in racing .
Please note that the information provided is based on the search results available up until March 21, 2024, and there may be further developments or changes beyond this date.
Contents
Why is Ford no longer in F1?
Ford ultimately sold Jaguar—to Red Bull, coincidentally—ahead of the 2005 season, and the company has been absent from F1 since. Today’s F1 rules call for hybrid power units consisting of a 1.6-liter turbocharged V-6 engine running on conventional fuel and featuring a complex hybrid battery electric system.
Which brands will join F1?
Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Ford CEO Jim Farley announce their F1 tie-up. Alongside new teams, there have also been two new power unit suppliers confirmed for 2026: Audi and Ford. Honda has confirmed that it will continue in F1 by supplying Aston Martin, despite announcing its withdrawal from the series in 2020.
Why did Honda quit F1?
Max Verstappen won the 2021 World Championship driving the Red Bull-Honda RB16B. In October 2020, Honda announced they would withdraw from Formula One at the end of the 2021 season, citing their need to focus resources on next-generation road vehicle technologies to make necessary strides towards carbon neutrality.
Does Honda regret leaving F1?
It appears Honda regretted their decision to leave the sport, particularly after how impressive their power unit is. Speaking ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, Verstappen was asked for his thoughts on Honda’s return. “From our side, of course, it’s a bit unfortunate how all of that turned out,” he said.
Who is joining F1 in 2024?
Confirmed 2024 F1 driver and team line-ups
| Team | Drivers |
|---|---|
| Visa Cash App RB | Yuki Tsunoda (2024) Daniel Ricciardo (2024) |
| Alpine | Esteban Ocon (2024) Pierre Gasly (multi-year deal) |
| Aston Martin | Fernando Alonso (multi-year deal) Lance Stroll (rolling contract) |
| Ferrari | Charles Leclerc (beyond 2026) Carlos Sainz Jr (2024) |
What is the Ford F1 deal?
Ford is backing the Red Bull Powertrains power unit that will be used by both the main F1 team and RB from 2026, when the new regulations are introduced. However, its commitment has been called into doubt by the Christian Horner controversy that has dominated the headlines in recent weeks.
Is Ford joining Red Bull F1?
It was announced on Friday afternoon that Ford and Red Bull Powertrains have entered into a partnership that will see them develop a next-gen power unit to supply Red Bull Racing and their sister team AlphaTauri from 2026 until at least 2030.
Is Ford going to join F1?
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1, said: “The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula 1.
What F1 team is Ford replacing?
The American automaker will replace Honda at world champ Red Bull Racing starting in 2026.
Is Lamborghini joining F1?
However, this prestige comes at a significant financial cost, which is one of the key reasons why Lamborghini chooses not to participate. F1 participation entails an immense financial commitment, not only in terms of the upfront expenses needed to build a competitive car but also in ongoing operational costs.
