Ford Affirms F1 Commitment Despite Red Bull Staff Exits and Verstappen Uncertainty

Ford Performance director Mark Rushbrook has reaffirmed the American manufacturer's commitment to Formula 1, stating that their partnership with Red Bull Racing is not dependent on any single individual. This declaration follows reports that Gianpiero Lambiase, Max Verstappen’s race engineer and Red Bull’s Head of Racing, will depart for McLaren in 2028. The news adds to a series of high-profile exits from Red Bull, including key technical figures like Adrian Newey and Rob Marshall. Despite early struggles in the 2026 season regarding chassis and aerodynamics, Rushbrook expressed confidence in Red Bull’s organizational character and ability to recover, citing their resilient performance in the previous year. While Ford acknowledged they would dislike seeing champion driver Max Verstappen leave the team, Rushbrook emphasized that their strategic investment remains secure regardless of personnel changes. The focus remains on how Red Bull reacts to these challenges rather than the departures themselves. Ford continues to support Red Bull as their engine partner, maintaining that the team possesses the right culture and personnel to compete at the front of the grid despite the current competitive deficit and internal restructuring.