Ford’s high-profile return to Formula 1 through its partnership with Red Bull Powertrains is drawing closer, and CEO Jim Farley insists the company is under no illusions about the scale of the challenge and the pressure it faces.
From 2026, Red Bull will end its collaboration with Honda and instead power its cars with engines developed in-house at Milton Keynes, with Ford joining as a strategic partner.
The Blue Oval’s commitment to F1 marks a significant moment for the American automotive giant, which previously partnered with Cosworth to produce the legendary DFV engine.
From 1967 to 1983, the Ford-Cosworth partnership dominated the sport, securing 155 Grand Prix victories, 13 drivers’ championships, and 10 constructors’ titles.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 in Monza, Farley made clear the American manufacturer is fully prepared for the competitive landscape of modern Formula 1.
"Well, I think we fully understand not only what we're up against to support Laurent [Mekies – Red Bull team prinicpal] and the team, but we also understand the history of our company and our contribution to Formula 1. And I certainly understand that personally.
"So, yes. And I think it won't be just the first race. It'll be many years to come. The pressure we'll feel every day, every week, as we work together closely. We know that's coming."
Building a Strong Partnership
Red Bull team chief Laurent Mekies highlighted the growing strength of the collaboration, describing the joint project as one that intensifies with every passing day.
"Every single day that passes, we are working more and more together. The brainstorming becomes more intense. We try to find new areas in which we can develop together, in which we can push each other," Mekies said.
"So, it's exactly what we need given the size of the challenge. And I'm sure, as Jim said, it's not only what's separating us from now to the first day of testing.
“It's after that we will continue to grow together, we will continue to push each other, and I'm sure the collaborations will become stronger and stronger."
High Expectations, Humble Approach
When asked whether winning in the first year of the partnership was a realistic goal, Farley acknowledged the difficulty of reaching such a high bar but remained optimistic.
“Well, it isn't our first rodeo. We've been in Formula 1 for a while, and I think that's good,” he said.
“As Laurent said, we're very humbled as a company. We're a humble company anyways, but these are the best technical people in the world in motorsports.
“And all I can say is we put our best effort in so far. And I just want to emphasize what he said, which is it's not just what we do in that first couple races. It's going to be how fast we react to what we learn about the chassis, about everything.
“And we understand that at Ford. We have our best technical people. We have 180,000 employees. They all know this is a top effort in the company. And we are going to throw everything we have at this effort.”
Ford’s commitment to the project is evident, with the company mobilizing its extensive resources to support Red Bull Powertrains.
The partnership is seen as a long-term investment, with both Farley and Mekies emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and adaptability in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on the two partners to see if their collaboration can replicate the success of Ford’s historic Formula 1 legacy. For now, Farley and his team are ready to embrace the challenge, fueled by a blend of ambition, humility, and determination.
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook
