Red Bull are still optimistic that they can get a deal with Porsche over the line, but the deadline is getting nearer with each passing day.
At the start of the year, it was reported that Volkswagen’s subsidiaries – Porsche and Audi – would be entering Formula 1.
The initial suggestions were that they would work together to make a powertrain that they would supply to McLaren and Red Bull, but it later became clear that they will be coming in as separate entities.
Audi will be operating as a works team from 2026, but they will not have to go through the same hoops as Andretti Global, as they plan to purchase an existing team and move its operation to Germany.
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Though it is unconfirmed, it is now commonly believed that Sauber will be the subject of a buyout from the German motoring giants, who have exploits in DTM, previous experience in Formula E, and intentions to return to WEC.
As for Porsche, they have submitted paperwork for the purchase of 50 percent of Red Bull Technologies, with Volkswagen CEO, Herbert Diess, previously confirming that Porsche intend to supply engines.
Having applied to trademark the word “F1nally,” it has all but been confirmed that Porsche too are set to enter the pinnacle of motorsport in 2026, but there is a catch.
Red Bull are reportedly concerned about the amount of shares Porsche are buying, and that they may end up assuming too much control of the team.
Not only would the deal see them make engines for Red Bull and AlphaTauri, but they would also, with the shares they intend to buy, have a seat at the table.
It is also expected that Porsche will be working with Red Bull in the new factory that has been built in Milton Keynes, so the marriage will see the two parties living in the same house.
Therefore, the deal has to be a sustainable one that works for all involved, but that has not been reached yet.
Realistically, if Porsche are to be ready for the new technical regulations in 2026, they need to get to work sooner rather than later, so time is running out.
“It’s 10 past midnight and Cinderella’s already buggered off,” joked team principal Christian Horner.
“So it’s tight, but that’s Formula 1 and that’s some of the creativeness and drive that happens within the teams.
“It’s going to be exciting to see more power unit manufacturers on the grid for 2026.”
Audi CEO, Markus Duesmann, recently suggested that Porsche will be making their engines in Britain, perhaps accidentally giving confirmation that the other Volkswagen brand is set to enter F1.
Red Bull adviser Dr Helmut Marko, however, insists that conversations are still ongoing.
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“He’s premature, the talks are not over yet,” said the Austrian of Duesmann’s comment.
“But Formula 1 is booming in such a way that it is a logical step for every self-respecting car manufacturer.”
Red Bull lead Ferrari by 118 points in the Constructors’ Standings after 14 rounds of the 2022 season, with Max Verstappen out in front in the drivers’ fight, 93 points clear of team-mate Sergio Perez.