Ford Rekindles its F1 Flame with 2026 Return
The sound of a roaring Ford engine is set to return to the Formula 1 grid in 2026, as the iconic American manufacturer announced its return to the pinnacle of motorsport.
After a 16-year absence, Ford has announced its intention to return to the Formula 1 grid in 2026, joining a growing list of manufacturers in the sport. The decision was made with two key factors in mind: the growth of the sport since Liberty Media’s takeover, and the increasing role that electric power will play in the 2026 power units.
The announcement was made with the support of FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who noted that the decision was a vindication of F1’s change of engine rules for 2026. “There are few manufacturers who have such a celebrated motorsport history as Ford, so to see them coming back to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship is excellent news,” he said.
Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford also expressed his excitement at the announcement: “This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather won a race that helped launch our company,” he said. “Ford is returning to the pinnacle of the sport, bringing Ford’s long tradition of innovation, sustainability and electrification to one of the world’s most visible stages.”
Ford has a long and successful history in Formula 1, having won 10 Constructors’ Championships and 13 Drivers’ Championships. The company is also in talks with Red Bull for many months, and it is understood that a deal is in place and is expected to be announced during the Milton Keynes-based team’s car launch later this year.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali also welcomed Ford’s decision, noting that the sport is “the start of a thrilling new chapter” for the iconic manufacturer. With the introduction of electric power in the 2026 power units, Ford’s return to F1 is sure to be an exciting one.
The return of Ford to the Formula 1 grid is sure to bring a new level of excitement and innovation to the sport. With a long and successful history in F1, the American manufacturer is set to bring its long tradition of innovation, sustainability, and electrification to the world’s most visible stage.
Source: www.motorsport.com