(Motorsport) German car company Porsche has called off its collaboration with Formula 1 team Red Bull Racing. Porsche was planning to enter F1 as the engine supplier for Red Bull from 2026 but the two companies have failed to reach an agreement. A statement released by Porsche said “The premise was always that a partnership would be based on an equal footing.” It said this would "include not only an engine partnership but also the team. This could not be achieved". One of the major aspects that the two parties could not agree on was that Porsche wanted to gain a shareholding in Red Bull as well as have an influence on team operations while Red Bull wanted to keep their independence. 

As things stand, Porsche remains interested in entering Formula 1 as an engine supplier, especially considering the new engine regulations that will be in place from 2026 onwards. As part of Formula 1’s goal of having a net zero carbon footprint, the new regulations will increase the proportion of power provided by the hybrid parts of the engine and also the introduction of fully sustainable synthetic fuels. The statement added “With the finalised rule changes, the racing series nevertheless remains an attractive environment for Porsche, which will continue to be monitored." 

Another German manufacturer Audi is set to enter Formula 1 in 2026 as a power unit manufacturer. However, it’s widely expected that Audi will take over the Sauber team and become a part of the Formula 1 grid eventually. As for Red Bull, the team are currently using Honda engines but the manufacturer has officially pulled out of Formula 1 in 2021. Red Bull are now setting up their own engine department which is responsible for designing and building power units in accordance with the new regulations.

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