Toro Rosso will switch from Ferrari to Renault power in 2014 when the new regulations come into effect, the French manufacturer confirmed on Sunday in Monaco.
The news ends months of speculation that Toro Rosso had been chasing a deal to use Renault power units to bring it in line with its sister team, Red Bull.
Toro Rosso team principal Franz Tost is pleased to have concluded the deal early on in the season and thanked Ferrari for their commitment over the years.
“We are very pleased to have reached an agreement to use Renault power units from the 2014 season onwards, when the new regulations will present interesting challenges,” he said.
“It is particularly important that we have managed to finalise our plans early, so that we can be as well prepared as possible for next year. While looking forward to working with Renault, I would also like to thank Ferrari, our engine supplier since 2007. They have provided us with an extremely effective and reliable engine and an excellent service.”
Renault Sport F1’s Jean-Michel Jalinier explained the reasoning behind the deal, admitting their supply deal with Red Bull didn’t factor in their decision.
“While it is logical we would discuss supplying Toro Rosso based on our partnership with Infiniti Red Bull Racing, it was not a foregone conclusion. We carefully considered what is best for all parties before concluding the agreement.
“Toro Rosso is a well-run, established team, with strong personnel and facilities giving the team the potential to be a regular points contender.
“Renault remains involved in F1 to win and demonstrate the excellence of its products. To achieve our aims we need to have teams functioning at the highest level, which is why we are delighted to sign with Toro Rosso.”
Meanwhile, Renault will lose Williams to Mercedes next season, whilst further changes up and down the grid are expected.
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