Porsche has denied rumors it has abandoned plans to enter F1 after talks with Red Bull broke down.
At the start of September’s F1 Italian Grand Prix weekend, Porsche released a statement saying that discussions regarding a proposed partnership to become an engine supplier to Red Bull Racing have officially ended.
The problem is that Porsche wanted more involvement with the team than Red Bull had envisioned. Porsche said in a statement that his “equal position” was “not achieved”.
It suggested that Porsche could end its F1 project.
Fellow Volkswage Group brand Audi has already committed to F1 from 2026 at the latest, when its next-generation power unit will be introduced, and a potential tie-up with Sauber, whose relationship with Alfa Romeo will end after the 2023 season. It may even expedite engagement through direct link-ups.
But when it comes to Porsche, it doesn’t seem like a broken deal with Red Bull necessarily means it can’t connect with other teams.
“Formula 1 continues to be an interesting racing series for us,” Porsche chief financial officer Lutz Meschke told Sport1.
“So we are looking at whether there are other viable avenues.
So who is Red Bull’s future engine supplier, if not Porsche?
While Red Bull Powertrains’ project continues at Milton Keynes, the team, which is poised to achieve a double title this year, has re-strengthened some of its ties with Honda, with the machine starting with the Japanese Grand Prix. It has the Honda logo.
However, given the right opportunity, collaboration options seem open, with Red Bull F1 motorsport adviser Helmut Marko saying earlier this year: ‘We are the most beautiful brides in the paddock’. .
Meanwhile, SPORT1 throws some unexpected names into the mix. Hyundai and Ford. The latter has not been involved in F1 since the 2004 season, after which the Jaguar team was sold to Red Bull.
“All I can say is that Formula 1 is booming at the moment, so it’s a logical step for any manufacturer to consider entering,” Marko said.
“There are several manufacturers who are interested, not just German manufacturers.”
