Time constraints on Porsche's F1 entry: These are their potential options

On Friday morning it became clear that Red Bull Racing and Porsche will not work together in 2026 and beyond when new engine regulations take control in Formula 1. Porsche's statement said with the rule changes, Formula 1 remains an "attractive environment for Porsche". But is the dream return now closed for the time being? 

Porsche in Formula 1

Unlike Audi, Porsche have already recorded mileage within Formula 1. As their own constructor, back at the 1958 Dutch Grand Prix the German team made their debut. They only competed in 31 Grands Prix but managed to record both a win and a pole position. Dan Gurney achieved the latter at the team's home Grand Prix in 1962. Their five podiums have all been recorded by Gurney. 

With brand new engine regulations appearing attractive due to their dependence on synthetic fuels, Porsche hoped to add to their small history in Formula 1 over the coming years. However, a deal broke down with Red Bull and it now seems near impossible to get something prepared for the 2026 season. 

According to The Race.com, there is a mid-October deadline for engine manufacturers to sign up for the 2026 season and be part of the voting for regulatory matters in 2026. That news would seemingly limit Porsche's options. With the deadline fast approaching and only just over a month to go, Porsche would already need to be talking to teams to get this deal across the line in time. Otherwise, they may be forced into only putting their name on an engine rather than developing fully. 

What are the options? 

It's been known for a while that Toto Wolff and Mercedes want to reduce the number of customer teams. They currently put their engines in the back of the following cars: Aston Martin, McLaren, and Williams. Adding themselves to that list means 40% of the grid is powered by Mercedes. It would seem likely that if Porsche are to become an engine manufacturer, then it would be one of those three teams. 

Perhaps most likely is Williams. They would be glad to take on a new engine supplier. But they've been parked at the back of the grid for the last few seasons despite having the same engine as the Constructors Champions for the last eight years. This doesn't make it an attractive option for Porsche. 

In addition to the above, Porsche returned to the Formula 1 grid in 1983 as an engine supplier under the name TAG Porsche. Again making their debut at the Dutch Grand Prix. This time, they were working with McLaren and more familiar names such as Niki Lauda and Alain Prost. In 1984 and 1985, they cleaned up by winning both World Championships in both years. Prost also claimed the Drivers title in 1986. 

Formula 1 is massive on history. McLaren could be keen to rekindle this love, though the team were more linked to Audi than Porsche. Up until Audi made the deal with Alfa Romeo and Sauber. Though McLaren ruled out a sale to Audi in May 2022. Zak Brown commented on how the current shareholders are committed to McLaren. If Porsche want to buy some shares, as reported with Red Bull, then it would seem likely that McLaren wouldn't accept this option. 

AlphaTauri up for sale

Earlier this month, a rumour suggested AlphaTauri went up for sale according to The Race.com. At the time, this seemed like a huge opportunity for Mario Andretti who has been suggesting he wants to start a Formula 1 team in the near future and bring in an American driver such as Colton Herta. If there is any truth to this rumour, perhaps Andretti and Porsche could open talks.