Red Bull ditch Renault for Honda

Following months of speculation, Red Bull have announced that their long-term engine supplier, Renault, will be replaced by Honda from the 2019 season onwards, with the French manufacturer continuing to supply only to their works team as well as McLaren going ahead.

Red Bull have been dragging their heels on the decision for a while now, with Renault reportedly getting frustrated at the lack of progress in the contract talks.

Christian Horner believes the new partnership will allow Red Bull to continue their development to compete for championships, not just race wins.

"After careful consideration and evaluation we are certain this partnership with Honda is the right direction for the team." the Red Bull boss said.

"We have been impressed by Honda's commitment to F1, by the rapid steps they have made in recent times with our sister team Scuderia Toro Rosso, and by the scope of their ambition, which matches our own.

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"We would like to thank Renault for the past 12 years, a period during which we experienced some incredible moments together. We have sometimes had our differences but Renault has always worked tirelessly and to the best of its ability to provide us with a competitive power unit."

These comments were echoed by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, who reckons the change could signal a new era of success for the team after being impressed with Honda's commitment.

"This partnership with Honda signals a new era for Red Bull Group in Formula One with both the Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing teams benefitting from common supply co-ordinated through Red Bull Technology.

"We have been extremely impressed by Honda's commitment and progress and share like-minded ambitions to compete for Championships. With this integrated approach between the companies, we very much look forward to working with Honda."