Christian Horner has declared that Red Bull Racing and Honda will “leave no stone unturned” in their quest to dominate Formula 1 in 2025, marking the conclusion of their highly successful partnership.
A winning partnership
Since Honda joined forces with Red Bull in 2018—initially with their sister team, Toro Rosso—the collaboration has powered Red Bull to unprecedented heights. With Honda’s engines, Max Verstappen clinched four consecutive Drivers’ titles (2021-2024), and Red Bull secured back-to-back Constructors’ Championships in 2022 and 2023.
“Seven years ago, when we announced our switch from [our] former supplier to Honda power units, some people cast doubts on our decision,” Horner said. “But we’ve been proven right, with historic records like 21 wins out of 22 races in 2023.”
Honda’s shifting role
Honda’s involvement has evolved over the years. The Japanese manufacturer officially withdrew from Formula 1 after 2021 but continued providing technical assistance under the existing engine freeze rules. By mid-2023, Honda reversed its decision, reaffirming its commitment to the sport. However, Red Bull’s move to establish its own powertrains division for the 2026 regulations made a long-term partnership untenable.
In 2026, Honda will supply Aston Martin with engines under the new power unit rules, which require 50% of power to be derived from electrification.
The final push for glory
Both Red Bull and Honda are determined to end their partnership on a high note. With the 2025 season representing their final campaign together, Horner emphasized their focus on winning every race and securing more championships.
“For the final season, both Red Bull and HRC will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to win,” Horner asserted.
The Ford partnership and the road to 2026
As Honda transitions to Aston Martin, Red Bull has enlisted Ford to collaborate on the development of their powertrains for the 2026 regulations. This marks the first time Red Bull will produce their own power units, a challenge Horner has described as the biggest in the team’s history.
“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 Mercedes High-Performance Powertrains,” Horner explained. “The mountain we have to climb is immense.”
Despite the daunting task, Horner expressed confidence in Red Bull’s capabilities.
“With the right spirit and the quality of people we have, it will be achievable.”
Looking ahead
The 2025 season will be a defining year for both Red Bull and Honda, as they aim to close their chapter with yet another dominant display. Meanwhile, the transition to Ford’s involvement and Red Bull’s own powertrain development signals a bold new era for the team.
The stakes are high, but Red Bull has never shied away from monumental challenges. As Horner aptly put it:
“2026 will be a complete reset, and we’re ready to tackle it.”