Team principal Christian Horner has confirmed Zak Brown visited the Red Bull Powertrains factory in Milton Keynes to discuss a potential Formula 1 engine partnership from 2026.
In early February, Red Bull announced its partnership with Ford for the next set of F1 engine regulations in 2026, which will see the two parties work together to create a power unit.
Red Bull and AlphaTauri will use the engine, whilst McLaren have been understood to be looking at all options including a return to Honda power, and now Red Bull-Ford.
“It’s obvious that as a power unit manufacturer for 2026 it’s inevitable that discussions are going to be held regarding potential powertrain supply,” Horner told the press.
“That’s only natural that we would with potential potential customers.”
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella added: “We have a solid partnership with HPP [Mercedes].
“At the same time is obvious that looking forward, you want to understand what’s what’s available. So I think that’s natural, shouldn’t be too much of a surprise.”
No plans for AlphaTauri to be sold
There have also been reports that Red Bull are keen to sell AlphaTauri, although the team have dismissed speculation about their future.
Horner also confirmed there are currently no plans to sell Red Bull‘s second team.
“As we all know, there’s always plenty of speculation in this paddock,” said Horner.
“The shareholders’ commitment has always been absolute, so it’s sometimes amusing to see how things get carried away, but as far as I’m aware, there’s no changes planned.
“We have synergies and supply agreements with AlphaTauri where they share several components and our wind tunnel as well. So nothing planned.”
