Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff says he has no doubts that Red Bull's decision to switch to Honda for 2019 was the right move and believes the partnership will be a competitive one.
Red Bull recently announced it would drop long-time engine partner Renault in favour of becoming a 'works' team with Honda. Some are skeptical about the news given McLaren's experience with the Japanese manufacturer and how that eventually played out.
However it's become clear that some of the problems experienced during that three-year partnership were down to McLaren, whilst Honda has made strides this season with Red Bull's junior team Toro Rosso.
Wolff therefore expects good things from Red Bull and Honda and says it's important big brands are involved in the sport.
"First of all, as a Formula 1 fan, we all remember the glorious years of Honda in the sport and I have no doubt that they can come back to that situation," he said.
"For us, as Mercedes, it is extremely important that we have top brands in Formula 1, be it OEMs that have joined the sport as engine suppliers or be it multinational and global brands such as Red Bull, and the more we can attract the better for all of us and the better for the sport.
"I have also no doubt that they will be competitive. Franz [Tost, Toro Rosso team boss] mentioned it before, the collaboration will make another step between Toro Rosso, Honda and Red Bull for next year. And with Red Bull’s technical capabilities and resource they will certainly be of great assistance to make the power unit progress."
Wolff also believes it's Red Bull's only chance of winning a championship again given Renault's focus is now on its own team.
"This is certainly the right step forward, looking from the outside, for all parties. It was important for Red Bull to have a works status," he added.
"Long term probably the best chance to win a championship. Maybe short term, more work to do. But long terms, from where I sit, absolutely the right decision. Looking forward to tougher fights and tougher battles with Red Bull Honda."
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