Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has revealed that a deal with Red Bull for 2026 had been “agreed on a handshake”, before the partnership dramatically collapsed before it could be officially finalised.
2026 is seen by many manufacturers as a perfect time to join Formula 1, with the new engine regulations set to be introduced in three years’ time, something which will see the sport become much more sustainable.
Both Audi and Porsche quickly made their interest in joining F1 known, with their owner, Volkswagen, having given permission for both to enter.
So far only Audi are confirmed for 2026, with the Germans having struck a deal to take a 75-percent share of the Sauber outfit, meaning Audi will join F1 as a works team.
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Porsche came close to being announced, only for a huge deal with Red Bull to fall through very late on.
The manufacturer and Red Bull held very positive conversations, to a point where it was looking all but certain that they’d enter a relationship.
However, the deal ultimately broke down as a result of Porsche demanding too much from the Austrians, who wanted to maintain their independence.
Porsche were insisting on having a 50-percent stake in the team and virtually full control over the power unit, something which unsettled Red Bull’s bosses.
Blume has since revealed that he is “okay” that the deal didn’t materialise, despite a “handshake” having been done between the pair.
“The talks went very well, a stake in the team was agreed on a handshake, but was not finalised at the last moment,” Blume said, quoted by Speedweek.
“We wanted to be an equal partner. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether they want to sell shares. That’s okay with us. We behaved fairly.
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“We will see what happens in the future and what will be attractive. We have a huge program [in motorsports] ahead of us that we’re looking forward to.”
According to reports, Porsche have since shown some interest in partnering with either McLaren or Williams; however, some have also stated that their interest in F1 is dead.
According to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, this might not be true, after stating in October to the World Motor Sport Council that Porsche were “still in discussions” with some sides in the paddock.