Ford and Red Bull have announced an exciting new partnership that will see the American automotive giant return to Formula 1 in 2026. The partnership marks a return to the pinnacle of motor racing for Ford, having last competed in the sport in 2004.
The new deal is seen as the first step towards a more significant involvement in Formula 1.
Speaking about Ford's entry into the sport, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali said:
"The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula 1. Ford is a global brand with an incredible heritage in racing and the automotive world and they see the huge value that our platform provides with over half a billion fans around the world."
Ford have a long and successful history in motorsport, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans 16 times and taken multiple wins in the World Rally Championship. The company’s return to Formula 1 will be a welcome addition, and could potentially see the team take some race wins in 2026.
Ford's exit from Formula 1 racing was announced in 2004. The decision was made due to the high costs associated with competing in Formula 1 and the need to focus on more profitable ventures. Ford had been involved in Formula 1 racing for over a decade, with its most successful period coming in the 1960s and 1970s.
Ford's exit from Formula 1 racing was part of a larger trend of car manufacturers reducing their involvement in the sport. The company continued to supply engines to private teams in Formula 1 racing after its exit from the sport. Ford's exit from Formula 1 had a significant impact on the sport, reducing the number of manufacturer teams and causing a shift in the sport's financial landscape.
Ford's exit from Formula 1 racing also led to the loss of several hundred jobs in the sport. Despite its exit from Formula 1 racing, Ford has continued to be involved in motorsports through its support of other racing series such as NASCAR and IMSA.
Ford's exit from Formula 1 racing was seen as a missed opportunity for the company to showcase its technology and engineering capabilities on a global stage.
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