Red Bull-Ford 2026 engine ‘on track": Mark Rushbrook confirms performance targets met

Ford Performance director Mark Rushbrook has confirmed that Red Bull's 2026 Formula 1 power unit development is progressing according to plan, with internal targets being met ahead of crucial testing next month. The announcement comes as the Milton Keynes-based team prepares for its historic transition to becoming an engine manufacturer for the first time.

Max Verstappen recently heard the new Red Bull-Ford engine in operation and offered his initial verdict on the sound, calling it "crisp". The four-time world champion's positive first impression arrives just weeks before the power unit makes its on-track debut at a private test in Barcelona scheduled for January 26-30.

"We are to plan, so where we need to be, but it all comes together when it's actually in the car and on track," Rushbrook told Motorsport.com in an exclusive interview. He acknowledged that "there's always some level of nervousness" ahead of the Barcelona test, explaining that computer simulations and laboratory evaluations can only reveal so much until the power unit is tested under real conditions.

Shifting Focus to Drivability

After achieving initial power and reliability benchmarks, Red Bull Ford Powertrains has recently shifted its focus to drivability and calibration, which Rushbrook identified as critical components alongside raw performance. The development work combines computer modelling, laboratory testing, and simulator sessions with drivers to refine the power unit's user-friendliness and software.

Verstappen's manager, Raymond Vermeulen, recently shared "the good things" he has heard about the 2026 power unit, though he noted that "nobody knows" what the competitive reference point will be until the first races. The uncertainty stems from Formula 1's most significant regulatory overhaul, which introduces a 50-50 power split between the internal combustion engine and electrical systems.

Competitive Landscape

Red Bull will face established manufacturers Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, along with newcomer Audi, when the 2026 season begins in March. Paddock speculation suggests Mercedes may hold an early advantage due to their hybrid engine expertise dating back to 2014.

To prevent a repeat of Mercedes' multi-year dominance following the 2014 regulation changes, the FIA has introduced the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system. Under ADUO, manufacturers falling 2-4% behind in power output will receive one additional upgrade opportunity, while those more than 4% behind receive two.

Red Bull and Racing Bulls will unveil their 2026 liveries at a joint launch event in Detroit on January 15, celebrating Ford's return to Formula 1 after decades away. The teams will then participate in private Barcelona testing before public pre-season sessions in Bahrain on February 11-13 and 18-20.