Ford chief hails Verstappen’s ‘stability without drama’ at Red Bull

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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.

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“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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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.