Given that there seems to be interest from other competitors like Ford, the Red Bull-Honda alliance seems to be off the table for the 2026 F1 regulations.
According to AMuS, Honda will reportedly start using the engine formula in 2026, although they will reportedly do it independently rather than through a partnership with RB Powertrains.
The study states: “Honda is anticipated to begin participating in the engine formula in 2026. At the significant championship celebration in a week in Motegi, we could learn what the Japanese plans are. Honda is rumored to register alone, not form a joint venture with RB Powertrains, but rather to develop the entire powertrain internally before returning with a different crew.”
The most surprising aspect of this is that Ford seems interested, even though Red Bull and Honda might not collaborate. Let’s not forget that in 2004, Red Bull acquired the current squad from Jaguar, a Ford company. The document said:
“RB Powertrains is still a valuable business partner for automakers, nevertheless. The internal combustion engine prototype is now functioning on the test bench, and Milton Keynes is home to a functional engine plant with 300 engineers and mechanics.”
“Helmut Marko, the director of sports, recently made a suggestion that Honda wasn’t the only party interested. A clear favorite appears to have developed in the interim. Ford should be there.”
Porsche wants to explore further possibilities following Red Bull’s termination
The aforementioned story claims that the FIA and F1 have both urged Porsche to join the sport with their own team, much like Honda did.
Hyundai was reportedly interested in racing in F1, however, for the time being, its 2026 F1 entry appears out of place. The document said:
“Porsche is encouraged by the FIA and F1 management to follow Honda’s lead. Become a student under suspicion to get a foot in the door in 2026. Porsche sought alternative solutions once Red Bull withdrew. For Hyundai, Formula 1 is still too soon. In 2027, the Koreans can still enter. On June 30, 2023, the registration period for this will end.”
After almost ten years, Red Bull won the constructors’ championship. How appealing the new power unit restrictions would be is an interesting question.
It has been a while since the new rules in the sport have allowed many international players a chance. Given the presence of Ferrari, Mercedes, Renault, and Honda, there may be further new participants who jump on the F1 bandwagon.
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