Christian Horner sis not concerned about renewing the team's relationship with Renault.
Both sides fell out dramatically last year as Red Bull endured their first winless campaign since 2008. They did, however, end up continuing their relationship, albeit with the engines being rebadged as Tag Heuer.
Despite the "frustration" after 2014 and 2015, Horner now insists that the two sides have a strong relationship, one he is looking forward to continuing.
"But there was restructuring and personnel changes and new enthusiasm and we hope that will remain for the next two years, as we have already extended the cooperation," he told Speed Week.
Horner denied that things are now "awkward" with Tag Heuer being credited for Red Bull's two wins in 2016, despite the engine actually being a Renault.
"No, because everyone knows we are using a Renault engine, even if it is called Tag Heuer," he insisted. "The Renault people are just proud that their product wins races."
Red Bull are expected to fight for the title next year, with designer Adrian Newey likely to thrive with the new aero-dependant regulations for 2017. But Horner admits it may not be so clear cut.
"There is a lot of uncertainty about next season. These are the most serious changes since 2008 and at this point no one knows what the others are doing so all you can do is concentrate on yourself," he said. "It's possible a team will find something like the (Brawn) double diffuser."
"As usual, our timetable is very, very tight, but we have to and will be ready for the first test," he added.
Replies (2)
Login to replyringo
Posts: 3,633
For redbull is good if they develop a exclusive car for common people with Renault...its also good for Renault.. :)
Hemex
Posts: 1,314
You count yourself as the 'common people' then? Fancy driving the RB13 on the road like Verstappen in the Jumbo commercial? Never gonna happen, I'm afraid, Red Bull is selling Red Bull energy drinks and not road cars, exclusive or otherwise. You'll have to satisfy yourself with matchbox cars instead.