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Franz Tost says he is looking forward to Toro Rosso's switch to works Honda power for 2018. McLaren has dumped the Japanese engine manufacturer after a failed three-year collaboration, switching instead to the customer Renault deal enjoyed currently by Toro Rosso.
But Tost, the Toro Rosso team boss, says the Faenza based team is actually not enjoying its current situation with Renault. "We can't have more problems anyway, because we are changing the power unit every weekend," said the Austrian.
Indeed, Tost claims Toro Rosso even went to great lengths to end the Renault contract, offering Carlos Sainz to the French carmaker as compensation. "To terminate the contract we had to give something to Renault," he said. "The compensation was Carlos and because of his speed, we are well aware that he is a big threat for us because he scored most of our points and on the other side, he is now with Renault."
But Toro Rosso is happy with its all-new and motivated driver lineup of sportscar champion Brendon Hartley and GP2 champion Pierre Gasly. And Tost said he is not even worried about being stuck in neutral with McLaren's rejected engine partner Honda next year.
"They have another winter time where they will have the possibility to sort out the problems that they have currently," he said. "As Toro Rosso, we are the only team that will be working together with them which I think will become a big advantage. All the meetings we have had so far are quite promising," Tost added. "I'm more than convinced that this power unit will help Toro Rosso next year to become a very strong and competitive team." (GMM)
Grand Prix of Belgium
C. Sainz jr
3 members have this team as their favourite
Replies (7)
Login to replyBarron
Posts: 625
He would say that after the disaster of Renaults race in Mexico. I would imagine that McLaren are pretty nervous right now even though a Renault actually won. Can you imagine that after no less than 4 Renault engines failed in the race, Max probably developed a huge ear before he got to the finish line. That is a pretty dismal record for Renault.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
It was dismal. A complete shitshow, especially when you consider that both Hondas made it to the chequered flag.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
You should always be worried when you switch supplier, however I think they'll be in for a far better year with Honda next year compared to McLaren's run with them this year.
Major Tom
Posts: 152
The Renault engine may not be as reliable or powerful as the Ferrari or Mercedes but I know which I would prefer given a choice between a Renault and a Honda power unit. Its a no brainer!
f1ski
Posts: 726
with alonso's hx of leaving future championship teams my money is on honda
kngrthr
Posts: 203
Renault are pushing the engine hard as the season draws to a close.
there is nothing to lose; both championships are decided and they are getting valuable data.
Ferr
Posts: 6
Probably will be the third best team next year they have worked out all the problems through McLaren and next year they will be competitive with TR