Rumored links between Red Bull and Ford are beginning to escalate ahead of the team’s car launch in New York City on Friday.
Multiple reports are beginning to predict the launch could become a platform to announce a future partnership between the team and the American automotive giants, with Red Bull hinting at a “blank canvas” for the new season through a social media post on Friday.
Ford themselves have also confirmed that the push towards sustainability and the explosion in Formula 1’s popularity in America has made them consider a return to the sport, with their last involvement having been in partnership with Jordan in the 2004 season.
To follow on from that, F1 business reporter Vincenzo Landino from The Qualifier wrote on Twitter: “Red Bull’s livery launch date is 3 February in New York City.
“I have word from some of my contacts that Ford is sending some content creators and influencers to NYC on the same date. Coincidence?”
It could end up being a coincidence, but after the arrival of Audi in time for Formula 1’s new power unit regulations in 2026, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has also hinted that more manufacturers could be in the pipeline for the sport’s new era, recently telling reporters at the Dakar Rally: “In a short time, maybe as early as next week, another manufacturer could sign for the 2026 engine regulations.”
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But discussing a link over a 2026 entry into Formula 1, Ford Performance boss Mark Rushbrook remained coy over the prospect of partnering the reigning Drivers’ and Constructors’ champions in future – although the prospect was not ruled out entirely.
“We don’t comment on speculation, but it’s the same with all these series that are out there,” he told Motorsport.com.
“It’s our responsibility to study them and understand them, and then make decisions on whether it makes sense or doesn’t make sense.
“Sustainable fuel definitely is something we’re interested in, but we’re already doing that in other series.”
Red Bull will be launching the RB19 in New York City on Friday 3 February, before sister team AlphaTauri follow suit a week later in the Big Apple as their pre-season preparations ramp up.
