Christian Horner Reflects on Red Bull’s Honda Partnership, McLaren’s Success, and Looks Ahead to 2025

Abu Dhabi, December 2024 – Christian Horner, after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024, reflected on Red Bull Racing’s season and plans for the future. After a thrilling conclusion to the Formula One season in Abu Dhabi, Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner addressed the media, reflecting on a year marked by intense competition, a successful partnership with Honda, and preparations for the seasons ahead. Horner also extended congratulations to McLaren for their impressive Constructors’ Championship victory, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive 2025.

Congratulating McLaren and a Look at 2025

Horner acknowledged McLaren’s achievements in 2024, praising their consistent performance and effective teamwork. “Today is McLaren’s day, so let them enjoy it. Congratulations to Zak [Brown], Andrea [Stella], Jeff, the shareholders, and the whole team for being the Constructors’ World Champions. They’ve done a fantastic job with six victories this season,” Horner said. He noted McLaren’s advantage in frequently starting with both cars on the front row, which proved decisive in their championship success.

Looking to the future, Horner expressed excitement for the upcoming season. “Next year could be four teams fighting from the start. It looks like it could be a vintage season,” he said, highlighting the increasingly competitive landscape of Formula One.

Honda Partnership: A Final Chapter

As 2025 marks the final year of Red Bull’s partnership with Honda, Horner reflected on the automaker’s instrumental role in the team’s achievements.

“Honda has done a great job for us again this year. They’ve been a key part of our success with the wins and the Drivers’ World Championship that we’ve managed to defend,” he said.

Horner also emphasized the importance of maintaining the partnership’s momentum in its final year.

“Next year, all parties are determined to continue what has been an incredibly successful partnership. Performance and reliability remain crucial as we head into the last year of our relationship before introducing our own engine with Ford in 2026,” he added.

Yuki Tsunoda to Test for Red Bull

Horner also confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda, currently driving for VCARB, will test for Red Bull Racing during the season-end tests in Abu Dhabi. However, he clarified that this opportunity does not impact the decision on who will partner Max Verstappen in 2025. “It’s a great chance for Yuki, and it acknowledges Honda’s contribution to his development, but it has no bearing on our driver lineup for next year,” Horner explained. The test is viewed as a gesture of goodwill toward Honda, recognizing their former junior driver’s progress.

The Big Reset: 2026 and Beyond

Horner highlighted the significance of the regulatory changes coming in 2026, which will usher in a new era for both powertrain and chassis design. “2026 is the biggest reset in probably the last 60 years of Formula One, but first, 2025 is where the focus will be,” he remarked.

Despite the challenges, Horner expressed confidence in Red Bull’s ability to adapt and succeed, emphasizing the team’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation.

Gratitude for the Season

Concluding his remarks, Horner expressed appreciation for the hard work of his team and the support from the media throughout the season. “When you do the numbers, 24 races equates to just under 100 days at the circuit for engineers and staff. That applies to you guys in the press office too. Thank you very much for all your support this year,” he said, wishing everyone a good holiday season and a happy New Year.

Read also:

• Yuki Tsunoda fate soon decided as he qualifies P11 in Abu Dhabi
• Lewis Hamilton: From F1 Legend to Top Gun Pilot, Bidding Farewell to Mercedes 
• Ryo Hirakawa to Drive for McLaren in Abu Dhabi GP FP1
• Esteban Ocon Bids Emotional Farewell to Alpine Following Unexpected Exit