Is Ford about to return to F1?

For a while now, Ford has been tipped for a possible return to F1 with Red Bull in 2026. But recent findings seem to suggest they might be back a lot sooner than expected.

Sauber Red Bull Ford Monaco 1995

After leaving the sport in 2004 from a few years with Jaguar, the team was sold to Red Bull, who we now know have gone on to win multiple world championships. But it seems they're planning on coming back.

Speaking to Autosport in the past few days, Ford Performance boss Mark Rushbrook has said

"Formula 1 is certainly strong and growing, both in the United States and globally

"It's shifted for sure, and it definitley requires consideration."

Since Honda's departure from the sport at the end of 2021, Red Bull have been eagerly looking for a new engine supplier to join them. There's been rumors from all over the manfacturers, from Porsche to Audi, and now Ford. Talks have reportedly progressed to an advanced stage with deals being proposed between the manufacturer and the team, but it's still possible they could all fall through, much like they did with Porsche, and Red Bull are left looking elsewhere.

1999 Stewart-Ford SF3 being driven by Rubens Barrichello

However, Vincenzo Landino has said that his sources can confirm Ford are planning on coincidentally sending some content creators & influencers to New York on the same date as the Red Bull's new car/livery launch on the 3rd February 2023, which is going to take place in the same city. One could say this is a bit more than a coincidence, and that perhaps there is something big about to be announced from the team and manufacturer.

Despite the promising comments from Ford's performance boss, their Global Director has refused to comment on any possible partnerships with Red Bull or other Formula 1 teams.

Regardless of whatever happens, its really great to see so many manufacturers dipping their toes back into the world of Formula 1, with the big boom that social media (and Netflix) have brought to the sport, and we hope to see more join the likes of Audi from 2026 or even sooner!