Toro Rosso Gives Honda 'More Freedom' Than McLaren

Toro Rosso boss James Key has seen the relationship with engine partner Honda being fruitful so far in testing, as the STR13 looks very reliable.

This was certainly not the case in the last three years, when the Honda-engine kept breaking down consistently in the McLaren-cars. McLaren grew very frustrated of their Japanese partners, and eventually broke ties with Honda at the end of last season.

Toro Rosso now seem very happy to have Honda as engine partners, as the car has decent pace and is very reliable.

The main theory why this is the case, is that Toro Rosso have given Honda freedom, while McLaren imposed certain technical requirements over the last years. James Key confirms this theory, at least on Toro Rosso's side.

Key realises that the Renault power-unit is probably still faster at this point, but he's optimistic Honda can catch up soon.