'Unstoppable'? How Red Bull/Ford engine project is really going
Key Points:
- At the Red Bull Formula 1 launch in Detroit, Bill Ford expressed strong optimism about the Red Bull-Ford engine partnership, calling it "unstoppable," while Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies acknowledged significant challenges ahead.
- Red Bull Powertrains, led by technical director Ben Hodgkinson, is uniquely positioned as it was custom-built specifically for the 2026 regulations, attracting bold talent and fostering innovation.
- The immediate focus is on delivering a reliable power unit for early 2026 races, with reliability seen as critical to gaining track time and performance development.
- Red Bull's integrated approach, with engine and chassis development co-located, offers a strategic advantage for rapid innovation and alignment, contrasting with competitors like Mercedes.
- While initial performance