Mekies reveals historical update in Red Bull's engine development

The engine is being built in collaboration with Ford and will mark the first time Red Bull has built their own power unit, after their deal with Honda expires at the end of 2025.

Speaking to Red Bull’s in-house podcast Talking Bull, Mekies revealed that the power unit is undergoing testing on the team’s dynamometer to be ready for testing at the end of January.

He said: “At first, symbolically, it’s huge, because there is no crazier challenge than Oracle Red Bull Racing with Ford deciding to do its own engine.

The Red Bull Powertrains-Ford engine will not be the only new power unit manufacturer joining the grid next season, as Audi is also producing their own for 2026.

Cadillac will be utilising Ferrari power when they arrive on the grid next season, but plans to introduce their own power unit in 2029.

Alpine has decided to abandon their in-house power unit in favour of a Mercedes unit, and Aston Martin has chosen former Red Bull partner Honda to supply their powertrain for 2026.

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