Horner: 'Porsche's DNA didn't match Red Bull Racing's'

Christian Horner makes it clear that Red Bull Racing does not need any help with the engine project. That the deal with Porsche did not work out in the end is therefore not a disaster for the Austrian team.

Porsche and Red Bull

For some time Porsche and Red Bull Racing seemed to be in the middle of a deal, but Porsche announced Friday morning that the collaboration has been cancelled. Porsche wanted to become co-owner of the team, but Red Bull was not interested. According to Horner a partner for the engine project is not necessary at all.

In conversation with Autosport.com Horner said that the new engine project in Milton Keynes made it logical to hold talks with other parties. Red Bull is working with around 300 employees on the 2026 engine, which has also been on the test bench since the summer break. However, despite significant investment, it was not a requirement to find a partner for this project.

Partnership with Honda

Still, Red Bull entered into talks and that indicates a door that is ajar. ''But only if it fitted with our DNA and our long term strategy.'' That's where it went wrong in the cooperation with Porsche. The German brand wanted more influence within the team, but Red Bull doesn't want to hand over that much power to an external party. ''Porsche is a great brand, but the DNA is quite different''.

Red Bull will be working on the new engine itself in Milton Keynes but is keeping the door open for other parties. Red Bull Racing's team boss says the arrival of a partner who can add something to the project will certainly be considered. Honda is mentioned as a possible partner, but the question is whether Honda will want to have more influence than just contributing to an engine in F1.