Ford hints at closer collaboration with Red Bull

Asked about the day-to-day collaboration between Ford and Red Bull, Rushbrook emphasises that Ford steps in where needed. “We look at it as whatever resources are needed, we're willing to provide,” he replies. “We've got engineers that are on site, and those engineers are primarily working on the software, the calibration."

Earlier, Rushbrook said that in addition to the electric side, Ford has also become more involved with the internal combustion engine. “For the combustion side, the majority of our contribution there has been in the manufacturing of some of the parts, with what we're able to make here in Dearborn with additive manufacturing and shipping over to supply the Milton plants for testing and then also for what will actually be released."

Rushbrook does not rule out that Ford’s involvement will increase further in the future. "Depending on what is needed," he answers. “We're happy with what we're contributing at this point. If there is additional need, we're going to do it, because we want to win." Ford is not only looking at 2026: “Then there's also working on the future iterations of this powertrain, getting ready for 2027."

Asked what it will take in 2026 for Ford to consider the F1 season a success, the Ford Racing chief opted for a more measured response: "I don't know that we're looking at that in terms of performance or results. But I think it is driving it to the point where we feel like we've maximised the power unit and the team performance. And then we'll see what the results are against the competition,“ Rushbrook concludes.