Horner sceptical of Wolff's "full undivided support"

Christian Horner has questioned the motives of Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff in supporting Red Bull's quest to solve its power unit dilemma.

With Honda withdrawing its supply from the end of next season, Horner recently made clear that for Red Bull to continue in F1 the ideal scenario would be for his team to take on the Japanese manufacturer's product.

For Red Bull to do that, however, Horner has called for a freeze on power unit development from 2022 until F1 introduces its new engine in 2026, although a year earlier has also been discussed.

Surprisingly, Wolff has expressed support for Horner's suggestion, appreciating the fact Red Bull does not want to again become a customer of another manufacturer - with Ferrari and Renault the only options.

Asked whether he was surprised himself at such remarks, Horner believes he can understand Wolff's comments.

"It’s not often that Toto is in agreement with Red Bull," said Horner. "Obviously it’s not an illogical thing for him.

"They have the best engine currently in F1 so why wouldn’t you freeze it. I think there is a bigger picture for Formula 1 and they need to take the necessary steps to protect and safeguard the sport in that respect with the power unit."

The matter is understood to have been discussed during a recent F1 Commission video conference involving the FIA, F1 and the teams.

While no decision was taken, questioned on whether having Mercedes' support was at least a help, Horner quipped: "I think Toto would do anything not to have to supply us with an engine. So I’m very grateful for his full undivided support!"

Before you go...

Alfa Romeo retain Raikkonen and Giovinazzi partnership for 2021

FIA has no concerns for Imola safety despite "a great number” of changes

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Max Verstappen left laughing after Nurburgring triumph

• 25 minutes ago

Does Lewis Hamilton regret Mercedes F1 exit? Here's what the champion's thinking

• 59 minutes ago

Max Verstappen Nurburgring Results: NLS2 Qualifying times and grid order

• 2 hours ago

Max Verstappen 'conflicted' as he addresses F1 retirement

• 2 hours ago

Mercedes to be outvoted by F1 rivals as FIA 'submit engine change proposal'

• 3 hours ago

F1 News Today: Jonathan Wheatley leaves Audi as Aston Martin issue team principal statement

• Today 07:55