According to Mark Rushbrook, head of Ford Performance Motorsports, the American automotive giant remains committed to Red Bull – even if star driver Max Verstappen unexpectedly packs his bags. With the introduction of the new regulations, the Austrian racing team is partnering with Ford; Red Bull Ford Powertrains was previously established. Verstappen – or any individual for that matter – is not a decisive factor in this.
In an interview with British Autosport.com, Mark Rushbrook confirmed that the development of the new power unit is going according to plan. The American is aware of the fierce competition, particularly from established engine suppliers Mercedes and Ferrari, but is also aware of an equally important variable when it comes to competitiveness; four-time world champion Max Verstappen. The Dutchman vows to remain loyal to Red Bull for the time being, but according to experts, his future in Formula 1 is anything but certain.
Future without Verstappen?
Verstappen is vital for Red Bull – and therefore for Ford – but Rushbrook makes it clear that Ford’s involvement is not dependent on one person. “Wherever we race, we want to have the best team, with the best drivers and the best people,” he explained. “But did we sign the deal for one particular person? No, because we know it’s a long-term deal and people come and go. We already knew that from Christian Horner, from Adrian Newey, and from the drivers. Some of them had already left before we even appeared on the circuit,” he referred to Newey and Sergio Pérez.
“Do we want Verstappen to stay with Red Bull-Ford until 2026 and beyond? Of course,” Rushbrook admitted. “He is a champion. He is a great person and he elevates the entire team. But that doesn’t mean we pack our bags as soon as he leaves the team. We are committed.” When asked, Rushbrook responded that he is not “afraid” that Verstappen will leave the team. “People like to use the word fear, but I wouldn’t call it fear. We just want to make sure that the team with Red Bull Ford Powertrains can continue to win.”
Still Believing in Red Bull
Rushbrook ultimately understands why Max Verstappen is so crucial to the team’s current competitiveness. “He is a champion for a reason,” says the American. “Obviously because of his talent, but also because he wants every part of the team and the program to be as good as possible.” Despite Verstappen’s qualities, Red Bull no longer dominates the championship. The first six Grand Prix races have shown that McLaren is once again the team to beat. Does this worry Ford?
“We know that in all forms of motorsport – but especially in Formula 1 – there are dynasties of teams that just keep winning,” he replied. “But then there are periods when that doesn’t happen, so there’s always a kind of ebb and flow. Would we have liked Red Bull to have won more races at the end of last year and this year? Of course, but at the same time, we know that the team still has the right people to win consistently. The feeling is still the same. A few weeks ago, we were in Milton Keynes and spoke with Pierre Waché and all the technicians. We still believe in the people, in the team that is there, and in their ability to win races.”
