As speculation swirls around Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 future, Ford has entered the conversation with a powerful and unexpected statement — making it clear that their long-term commitment to the sport, and to Red Bull Racing, is not tied to the reigning world champion.

In an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, Ford Performance director Mark Rushbrook addressed growing rumors that Verstappen could walk away from Red Bull — or even retire from Formula 1 — after the 2025 season, just as the sport enters a new engine era in 2026.

“Do we want to see Max stay in the Red Bull-Ford for 2026 and beyond? Of course,” Rushbrook said. “He’s a champion. He’s a great person and he elevates the entire team with him. But are we going to run away if Max leaves the team? No. We are committed.”

Behind the scenes, Ford and Red Bull Powertrains are already deep into development for the new 2026 power unit regulations, which will emphasize hybrid power and sustainable fuel. While Verstappen’s presence is undeniably an asset for marketing and competitiveness, Ford is staying focused on the bigger picture.

“Everywhere we race, we want to have the best team with the best drivers and the best people,” Rushbrook added. “But did we sign the deal for any one person in particular? No. We knew going in that people change — drivers, team bosses, even engineers. And we’re prepared for that.”

Rumors linking Verstappen to Mercedes — and more recently, Aston Martin, where Adrian Newey will help design the 2026 car — have only added fuel to the fire. But Rushbrook remains calm, even when pressed on whether Verstappen’s potential exit worries the American manufacturer.

“You like to use the word fear, don’t you?” Rushbrook joked. “I wouldn’t call it fear. But we do take the right actions to make sure Red Bull Powertrains-Ford keeps winning races. So do we want Max in the car? Absolutely. Are we dependent on it? Absolutely not.”

Rushbrook also praised Verstappen’s influence on the team, calling him “a champion for a reason.”

“It’s not just his talent. It’s the fact that he demands excellence from every part of the program. That kind of leadership is rare — and valuable.”

With Red Bull’s recent drop in dominance raising eyebrows and 2026 development ramping up, Ford’s unwavering stance sends a clear message: while Verstappen may be the face of the team today, Ford is betting on a future that’s bigger than any one man.