Red Bull boss Christian Horner has vowed his team and Honda will “leave no stone unturned” in their pursuit to win the Formula 1 title in 2025 before the partnership ends.
Honda and Red Bull have been intertwined since the latter’s sister squad, then known as Toro Rosso, took on the engine supply in 2018 that McLaren had opted to relinquish.
Having become disenchanted with how uncompetitive and unreliable Renault’s units had continued to be, Red Bull made the decision to switch the senior side to Honda.
That has paid dividends as Honda has powered Max Verstappen to the last four Drivers’ titles and the team to the Constructors’ Championship in both 2022 and 2023.
However, Honda’s role has been limited to technical assistance since an engine freeze was introduced in 2022 amid its choice to depart once the 2021 campaign ended.
The Japanese marque enacted a reversal in mid-2023, but Red Bull committing to setting up a powertrains division to tackle the 2026 rules ruled out a potential reunion.
Horner, though, has insisted both parties are determined to go out on a high with a serious assault on the title prior to their impending split once this season concludes.
“2025 marks the final year of the Honda-Red Bull partnership in Formula 1,” Horner said in a video clip that Honda Racing Global (HRC) posted on X earlier this month.
“Seven years ago, when we announced our switch from [our] former supplier to Honda power units, some people cast doubts on our decision.
“However, over the years we’ve been proven with many historic records – such as the 21 wins out of 22 races in 2023 – that it was absolutely the right call.
“For the final season, both Red Bull and HRC will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to win.
“Until then, we continue working hard together to win every race and secure more championships.”
Horner admits Red Bull has ‘biggest challenge’ in 2026
Honda will partner with Aston Martin on the revised engine regulations – including a move to 50% electrification – in 2026, which will also yield tweaks to the chassis.
Meanwhile, Red Bull has enlisted the help of American automotive giant Ford to help develop the team’s nascent power unit build as it strives to remain competitive.
Horner has branded the venture the “biggest challenge” Red Bull has undertaken since its inception, but one that he has complete trust it can manage with success.
“2026 will be a complete reset, and building your own power unit, four years ago, we had a clean sheet of paper,” he highlighted.
“In four years, we built a factory and developed an engine, but we’re taking on 75 years of experience with Ferrari and 30 years with HPP (Mercedes High-Performance Powertrains), so we have no illusions. The mountain that we have to climb is immense, but, with the right spirit, and the right quality people that we have within the business, it will be achievable.
“It’s by far the biggest challenge that we’ve taken on in Formula 1,” Horner concluded.
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