Red Bull Powertrains and Ford have teamed up to build an engine for the upcoming new F1 regulations and the executive is hopeful Red Bull can retain the four-time world champion, who is under contract until the end of 2028.

Jim, who met with Max in Monza last weekend, told Sky Sports News: "I think this is one of the most important pillars of foundation for the PU (power unit) success.

"Talking to Max, we at Ford really have grown our respect for Max watching him this year. The way he has provided stability without drama in an environment where we're all just trying to do our jobs. I can really see that in his eyes today versus last year.

"It's one of the great things about Laurent and his team. They all have this deep commitment to each other."

Red Bull CEO and team principal Laurent Mekies revealed the 27-year-old driver is "doing everything he can" to have a fast car next year and has been heavily involved behind-the-scenes.

He said: "Max is doing a lot more than just asking for the numbers. You would be surprised. Max is giving so much to the projects also outside of the car. He's not just asking the numbers.

"He's testing the car in the simulators, he's working with engineers on both sides of the fence to understand how do we develop these 2026 cars - where do we try to get the power? Where do we try to get the downforce? So that's how central to the project he is."

Red Bull currently use Honda engines but the Japanese brand plan to solely supply Aston Martin from 2026.