Christian Horner reacts to Renault’s departure from Formula 1

Christian Horner, team principal at Red Bull, spoke about Renault’s departure as an engine supplier for Formula 1. The British had notably worked with the French brand several years ago for Red Bull engines.

A story that dates back several years.

The story of Renault with Red Bull is quite unique. The French manufacturer notably supplied engines to Christian Horner’s team from 2007 to 2018, during which Sebastian Vettel won four consecutive drivers’ championships. During that time, Red Bull also secured its first four constructors’ championships between 2010 and 2013. Unfortunately, after the arrival of the V6 turbo-hybrids in 2014, Renault disappointed with its performances.

Having failed to produce a competitive car, tensions escalated between the two parties. Especially as Renault, which was still in Formula 1, was neck and neck with the Red Bull team in points. It was in 2018 that the team finally decided to part ways with its engine supplier and join forces with Honda until 2026. By that date, the team will manufacture its own engines. Despite a difficult end to the collaboration, Christian Horner will still regret Renault’s presence in Formula 1.

An unexpected departure

“I’m always sad to see an engine manufacturer leaving,” the Red Bull team principal told the media. “Viry has been involved in Formula 1 for many years, but I understand they have other projects they are involved in. They have provided us with engines for many years, so we know the people there quite well and wish them all the best for the future.”

For the moment, Alpine has not yet announced who would replace Renault for the development of its engines in 2025. Some rumors mention a partnership with Mercedes, but Toto Wolff, team principal at the company, said he had never been in contact with Alpine. However, he did not rule out a future collaboration, especially since Aston Martin, previously a Mercedes customer, will end its partnership with the team.