Ford issue clear stance over potential Max Verstappen Red Bull exit

Ford has asserted it will not run from Red Bull if Max Verstappen opts to depart the Milton Keynes-based squad in the near future.

Verstappen has a contract in place until the end of 2028, but the Dutchman has been linked with an early exit amid Red Bull's slip in form and murmurings about a performance clause in his contract.

The Milton Keynes-based squad is entering the sport's new era next year under fresh technical regulations with its own power unit as it builds from scratch for the first time.

Ford is in partnership with Red Bull to construct the new engine as it returns to the sport for the first time in over two decades.

The American manufacturer detailed it holds no concerns over the Dutchman's future as it highlighted the decision to commence the project was not focused around one individual.

“Wherever we race - in every championship - we want to do it with the best team, with the best drivers and with the best people,” CEO Mark Rushbrook told motorsport.com.  

“But did we sign the deal because of one person in particular? No, because this is a long-term deal and we know that things can change in terms of people. 

“We knew that with Christian Horner, we knew that with Adrian Newey and we knew that with the drivers. And some of that has changed before we even race on the track.”

Mercedes and Aston Martin have been touted as potential destinations for Verstappen, should he decide to leave his current team.

While Ford is keen for the four-time champion to stay put, it highlighted its future with Red Bull does not rely on Verstappen's decisions.

“Do we want Max to stay with Red Bull and Ford in 2026 and beyond? Of course we do,” Rushbrook added. “He’s a champion and he’s taken the whole team to the next level. 

“But are we going to walk away if Max leaves the team? No. We’re committed.”