F1 2026: Ford Announces Major Launch Event in January

Ford has revealed the first major date for the F1 2026 calendar, scheduling a launch event in the United States on January 15th. This event is expected to feature both Red Bull and Racing Bulls, marking the official commencement of their partnership with Ford Powertrains under the new Formula 1 regulations.

Why it matters:

This announcement signals the initial steps into the highly anticipated 2026 F1 season, which will introduce significant new technical regulations. For Red Bull and Racing Bulls, it represents a fresh start with a new power unit partner in Ford, potentially reshaping their competitive outlook. This partnership is a cornerstone of Ford's ambitious return to Formula 1, aiming to showcase its engineering capabilities on a global stage.

The Details:

• Event Date & Location: January 15th, 2026, at Ford's headquarters in Detroit, USA.
• Participants: The launch will highlight Ford's extensive racing commitments across various categories. For F1, it is highly anticipated that both Red Bull and Racing Bulls will officially join Ford to celebrate the start of their season.
• Partnership Commencement: The event will formally inaugurate the Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) and Ford collaboration, which has been intensely focused on developing the new power unit to meet the 2026 regulations.
• Team Presence: It is expected that all drivers from both Red Bull teams, alongside senior management, will be in attendance. They are also likely to unveil their new liveries for the partnership.
• A New Era for Red Bull: This launch signifies a rebirth for the Red Bull teams, marking not only the start of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains program but also the first season without the oversight of former Red Bull Racing CEO Christian Horner.
• Previous Collaborations: Ford and Red Bull have a history of joint launch events, including the unveiling of the RB19 in New York City in early 2023, where details of Ford's strategic technical partnership were first announced.
• Ford's Vision: Ford CEO Jim Farley has emphasized F1 as a crucial platform to showcase Ford technologies globally, expressing excitement for the partnership's potential to generate enthusiasm for the brand and its innovative approach.

What's next:

While official confirmation from Red Bull regarding their attendance is expected soon, the event sets a concrete timeline for the start of the 2026 F1 season's promotional activities. The unveilings of the revolutionary new RB22 and VCARB03 cars, designed under the new regulations, are still to be announced.

• The success of this partnership will be closely watched as it enters a new era of F1 technical regulations.
• This launch will be a key moment for both Red Bull and Ford, demonstrating their commitment and preparation for the competitive challenges ahead.
• The event will provide early insights into the aesthetic and strategic direction of the Red Bull teams under their new engine partnership.