Ford doubles down on F1 future – but only if electrification stays

Ford has made it clear that its return to Formula 1 is not a short-term experiment – but its continued involvement is firmly tied to one key principle: electrification must remain a core part of the sport’s future.

The American automotive titan is preparing for its highly anticipated comeback to F1 in 2026, partnering with Red Bull Powertrains to help develop the Milton Keynes-based outfit first-ever in-house power unit.

The timing coincides with the introduction of a new engine formula that features a 50-50 performance split between internal combustion and electric power.

Now, Ford Performance global director Mark Rushbrook reiterated that this hybrid approach was a key factor in Ford’s decision to re-enter the sport after more than two decades — and remains non-negotiable for their future in it.

Electrification at the Heart of Ford’s F1 Future

Rushbrook made clear that Ford’s long-term ambition is not just about competing, but about shaping the future of Formula 1 in partnership with other manufacturers.

“That is definitely our intent,” he said, referring to staying in the sport for the long haul. “We're committed to working with all the other stakeholders for what is the right thing for the future of this sport.

“Is it going to be exactly what any single manufacturer wants? No. But that's part of the process, because at the end of the day, if that discussion is exactly what we want and every other manufacturer leaves, then it's not a healthy sport either.”

Rushbrook emphasized the importance of collaboration away from the track.

“We know that and the other manufacturers know that as well. So you've got to work together for the good of the sport, the health of the sport and that basically means being partners off the track,” he said.

“You want to race each other fiercely on the track, but you need to work together off the track.”

No Interest in Combustion Comeback

His remarks come in response to recent discussions within the F1 community about potentially revisiting fully combustion-powered engines, albeit using sustainable fuels.

While that idea has been floated as a possible direction – initially by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem himself, Ford has pushed back against it.

• Read also: Ford won’t ‘run away’ from Red Bull if Verstappen leaves

“For Ford Motor Company, we believe there should be some form of electrification in there,” Rushbrook stated unequivocally.

“That's part of what attracted us to the 2026 rules. It's all about that balance between the ICE (internal combustion engine) and electrification.

“Does it need to be 50-50? No, not necessarily. As long as we have the opportunity to contribute, to learn and to bring knowledge to our road cars, then that's ideally what we're looking for.”

With Ford’s focus clearly fixed on learning and innovation through electrified racing, it’s evident the Blue Oval is not just racing to win – it’s racing to evolve.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook