Ford welcomes FIA's power unit rule tweak for 2027

Ford has endorsed the FIA's decision to adjust Formula 1's power unit regulations for 2027, moving from a near 50/50 split to approximately 60/40 between internal combustion and electrical energy. Mark Rushbrook, Ford's global director of racing, described the change as "a good step" for the sport.

Why it matters:

The revision responds to widespread criticism from drivers—led by Max Verstappen—about the 2026 power units forcing reduced flat-out laps and strategy focused on battery management rather than pure pace. By reducing reliance on electric power, F1 aims to preserve wheel-to-wheel racing and the spectacle that defines the championship.

The details:

• The FIA announced the regulatory tweak on Friday, aiming to address stakeholder feedback that the current format compromises on-track action.
• Drivers have complained about counterintuitive race strategies and limited time at full throttle during qualifying.
• Verstappen has been particularly vocal, arguing the heavily electrified units dilute the racing product.
• Rushbrook noted, "It's stakeholders voicing opinions, decision-makers making decisions. I think that is a good step to help the racing."

Looking ahead:

• The adjustment takes effect for 2027, giving teams time to adapt their power unit designs.
• Red Bull-Ford, in its first season of the partnership, has shown promise despite a challenging start—Verstappen's best finish through four rounds is fifth.
• Rushbrook praised the partnership's resilience, citing Red Bull's recovery last season when Verstappen nearly won a fifth title after early struggles with the RB21.
• He acknowledged the road ahead: "We know it's going to take a lot of work to get there. That's part of why we partnered with Red Bull. They are racers, they're committed to winning."

With regulatory clarity and a strong technical base, Ford is betting that the revised rules will restore focus to pure performance—and Red Bull-Ford will be ready to challenge the established order.