Ford v
Ferrari: The Austin Rematch with a Red Bull Twist
Some
motorsport rivalries are made for the big screen, and Ford versus Ferrari is
certainly one of them. America versus Italy, blue versus red, two automotive
giants fighting for supremacy and creating a story compelling enough to become
a Hollywood film. Seven years on from Ford v Ferrari
hitting cinemas, the chequered
flag will be waving in a fitting sequel of sorts in Texas at the end of
October, although this time there’s a Red Bull twist.
With
Ford now working alongside Red Bull Racing
in Formula 1, one of motorsport’s most famous old rivalries has gained an
unexpected modern connection. And where better for the next chapter than the
Circuit of The Americas? Austin provides the American backdrop, Ferrari
provides the famous red opposition, and Red Bull arrives with a driver who has
made COTA one of his happiest hunting grounds.
A
familiar battle in Austin
Max Verstappen
has won four of the last five Grands Prix in Austin, building an impressive
record at a circuit that rarely makes victory straightforward. From the steep
run into Turn 1 to the fast changes of direction through the opening sector and
the overtaking opportunities later in the lap, COTA has a habit of producing
action throughout the field.
There
is, however, one particularly appropriate interruption to Verstappen’s run of
Austin victories. The only other driver to have won during that five-race
stretch is Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
Given the history now being brought together by Ford and Red Bull, you could
hardly ask for a better supporting detail.
We’re
not quite suggesting Hollywood needs to start casting Ford v Ferrari 2. Matt
Damon can probably leave the race suit in the wardrobe for now. But when
Formula 1 arrives in Texas, it will be difficult not to enjoy the parallels.
An old
rivalry with a very modern twist
Ford and
Ferrari’s history stretches back to one of the most celebrated periods in
endurance racing, but the modern connection is rather different. Red Bull Ford
Powertrains represents a new chapter for Ford in Formula 1, bringing two huge
names in global motorsport together.
That
makes Austin particularly interesting. Verstappen’s recent success at COTA
gives Red Bull plenty of happy memories in Texas, while Ferrari has already
demonstrated its ability to spoil the party. Leclerc’s victory ensured the
Scuderia has its own recent place in the Austin story, adding another layer to
a Grand Prix that already knows how to put on a show.
Of
course, Formula 1 rarely follows a script for long. Previous victories don’t
guarantee the next one, and the field won’t be arriving in Austin simply to
play supporting roles. But if Red Bull and Ferrari find themselves fighting at
the sharp end again, the Ford connection will give an already compelling battle
a little extra flavour.
Put your
name into the Austin story
The best
motorsport stories are even better when fans can become part of them. That’s
why, for the Austin Grand Prix, fans can add their name to the chequered flag.
Names
from fans around the world will come together on the flag, creating a unique
piece connected to one of the biggest weekends on the Formula 1 calendar.
Whether you’re backing Verstappen, cheering on Leclerc and Ferrari, following
another driver entirely, or simply love seeing F1 descend on Texas, it’s a
chance to put your name alongside the action.
What
happens when the lights go out remains to be seen, but you don’t have to wait
until race day to become part of the occasion. With the Austin Grand Prix fast
approaching, Name on Flag spots are limited. Secure yours now and make sure
your name makes it to Texas for one of the most anticipated weekends of the
season.
Get your
name on the Austin
flag and become part of the story.