Ford CEO Farley Says Red Bull Needs To Resolve Investigation

Early last year, Ford announced that it would be making its long-awaited return to Formula 1 racing as part of a new partnership with the Oracle Red Bull team. The Blue Oval will produce power units for Red Bull starting in 2026, which will also help FoMoCo develop its next-generation all-electric powertrain technology at the same time. Building a competitive power unit from the ground up in a short period of time is a risky endeavor by Ford’s own admission, but it’s one that could pay off big time if successful, given F1’s soaring popularity. However, an investigation into Red Bull Racing Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner has given the automaker something else to worry about, which recently prompted CEO Jim Farley to call for a speedy resolution, according to the Associated Press.

“As we have indicated previously, without satisfactory response, Ford’s values are non-negotiable,” Farley wrote in the letter to the Red Bull team. “It is imperative that our racing partners share and demonstrate a genuine commitment to those same values. My team and I are available at any time to discuss this matter. We remain insistent on, and hopeful, for a resolution we can all stand behind.” Farley added that he’s displeased with “the unresolved allegations of inappropriate behavior by Red Bull Racing leadership,” adding that 11 days had passed since the automaker requested more information on the matter, with no response.

“Ford is becoming increasingly frustrated, however, by the lack of resolution or clear indication from you about when you anticipate a fair and just resolution of this matter,” Farley noted. “We are likewise frustrated by the lack of full transparency surrounding this matter with us, your corporate partners, and look forward to receiving a complete account of all findings.” The Blue Oval CEO ended his letter by stating that he expects “prompt and serious attention” be given to the complaint.

Thus far, Red Bull has remained mum on what, exactly, Horner is being accused of, though speculation has covered everything from his “aggressive management style” to allegations of sexual misconduct. Regardless, Horner has remained adamant that he did nothing wrong, and added that he’s complying with the investigation fully.

We’ll have more on this investigation soon, so sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford motorsports news and continuous Ford news coverage.