Ford chief executive Jim Farley has praised Max Verstappen’s influence at Red Bull, highlighting the reigning world champion’s ability to provide calm and stability as the team and its power unit partner prepare for the seismic 2026 Formula 1 regulation changes.
The American manufacturer is set to return to the sport for the first time in more than two decades through its collaboration with Red Bull Powertrains, which will deliver its first fully in-house power unit once the new rules take effect.
Speaking at the Italian Grand Prix last weekend in Monza, where Verstappen conquered his 66th career win in F1 in dominant fashion, Farley said the Dutchman’s loyalty to Red Bull and his demeanor through recent challenges have impressed everyone at Ford.
“I think this is one of the most important pillars of foundation for the PU [power unit] success,” he said.
“Talking to Max, we at Ford really have grown our respect for Max watching him this year.
Ford CEO Jim Farley in the Red Bull garage at Monza.
“The way he has provided stability without drama in an environment where we’re all just trying to do our jobs. I can really see that in his eyes today versus last year.
“It’s one of the great things about Laurent [Mekies, Team Principal and CEO] and his team. They all have this deep commitment to each other.”
For Farley, Verstappen’s consistency has been vital amid swirling speculation over his future and fluctuating results this season, with the Dutchman securing three victories despite Red Bull’s uneven form.
Praise for Mekies' Leadership
Alongside his acclamatory words for Verstappen, Farley underlined Ford’s full confidence in new team principal Laurent Mekies, who assumed leadership at Red Bull last July ahead of its transition toward 2026.
“Oh, I think it's great. I can feel it here,” Farley said. “I came here because I'm a big believer as a leader to understand things with your eyes and your ears. And I can clearly see the impact Laurent has had on the stability of the team.
©RedBull
“He's a technical person, which is exactly right for this change in 2026. He's absolutely the right leader. We are completely behind him, and I can really feel it here with the team.”
With Ford’s electrification ambitions aligning perfectly with F1’s new engine formula, Farley made clear the company sees Verstappen’s steadiness and Mekies’ technical leadership as vital ingredients in making the Red Bull – Ford partnership a resounding success.
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