Jim Farley, the American CEO of Ford, has high praise for Max Verstappen and his role within the Red Bull-Ford project, which is geared towards the new engine regulations of 2026. According to Farley, Verstappen is ‘one of the most crucial components for the success of the Red Bull-Ford engine.’
Red Bull Powertrains and Ford are working hard behind the scenes on the development of the new hybrid power unit. In an interview with Sky Sports, Jim Farley emphasizes that Verstappen is invaluable. Not only because of his performance on the track, but especially due to his involvement behind the scenes. “At Ford, we have gained more respect for Verstappen this year. The way he brings calmness is remarkable,” he said.
‘Technical Background’
Farley also praises Red Bull Racing team boss Laurent Mekies: “Laurent is a person with a technical background, and that’s exactly what we need for 2026. We fully support him, and I feel the entire team does too.”
Red Bull team boss Mekies, in turn, emphasizes that the run-up to 2026 is not about early successes, but a structured approach: “It’s not about who is on top during the tests in January. It’s about who has the foundation in order and develops the project in the right way. We’re doing it the Red Bull-Ford way.”
