Ford executive voices fear over 2026 Red Bull engine for Verstappen

Next year, car regulations will be changed drastically, focusing more on electric power in the engine, along with active aerodynamics, with the cars being significantly smaller than the current generation.

It was previously reported that Red Bull's focus seems to be slowly shifting towards next year, with the rules regarding the changes being made for next season already being tweaked and changed.

With the new rules, the Austrian team will be hoping to make a bid for the championship. However, with new rules, it's always uncertain where the teams stand, acknowledged by Rushbrook.

"Every time there are new regulations, especially if it’s for the power unit and the chassis at the same time, there is – I wouldn’t say fear, but there is – a known risk that teams will start at different levels," the American explained.

Ford will be coming into the pinnacle of motorsport for the 2026 season amidst the new regulations changes, working with Red Bull as the Austrian team moves on from Honda after seven seasons together.

Rushbrook naturally hopes the new rules will lead to victories, but also wants to cast the sport in a good light, with the Ford executive believing good cooperation between all teams is the key to success.

"For a successful sport, we all have to work together and make sure it’s still a good show," the Ford executive explained.

The fact that certain aspects regarding the engine seemed to be changed quite last-minute surprised Rushbrook, but he is pleased with it nonetheless.

“It was quite late that it didn’t come up, yes. But it’s good that afterwards everyone came together, so all the teams, the FIA ​​​​and Formula 1. Everyone agreed on the topic that 2026 is important, so together we have to contribute," he concluded.