Red Bull and Ford in F1 – why it may happen and why it may not.
The surest, quickest way for an entity - whether country, circuit, commercial brand, motor manufacturer (OEM), or multi-millionaire - to hit world headlines is to suggest some form of Formula 1 venture. Equally, ‘name-dropping’ can be used to commercial advantage in order to throw fans and media off-scent or to provide leverage to strike a deal. Plus, ‘warm’ stories ultimately prop up Liberty Media’s F1 share price.
Consider recent rumours that Adelaide was seeking a return to the F1 calendar: was there a genuine intention or had these suggestions been planted? Who knows - but the bottom line is that it is hardly coincidental that Melbourne then extended its deal; equally, consider Porsche’s F1 ‘entry’ which is as far from reality as it was last year January, yet the connection is regularly referenced even after the entry date 2026 date closed.
Thus, it is usually wise to look the other way when sudden claims or rumours arise, then sit back and analyse the situation. So it is...