Red Bull edges towards engine deal as Marko signals confidence
Helmut Marko expects Red Bull’s engine supply crisis to be resolved at Austin, with Renault talks now the most likely route to a 2016 solution.
Helmut Marko has said he is confident Red Bull’s Formula One engine supply crisis will be resolved during the United States Grand Prix weekend in Austin, as the team faces a deadline from owner Dietrich Mateschitz to secure a deal or consider leaving the sport.
Red Bull’s options have narrowed after Mercedes and Ferrari both declined to supply engines for 2016. Honda, the only other current supplier, has also said no, although some reports suggest a slim chance remains if McLaren’s opposition can be overcome. The team’s relationship with Renault remains strained after a disappointing season, but a patched-up deal is now seen as the most realistic outcome.
Reports indicate Red Bull had originally planned to switch to Audi power from 2018, but the Volkswagen emissions scandal derailed those ambitions, leaving the team exposed. With time running out, Marko told the Austrian press there will be a meeting with Renault in Austin and said he is confident a solution will be found.
Toro Rosso’s likely path diverges
While Red Bull looks set to stay with Renault, insiders believe Toro Rosso will switch to year-old Ferrari engines for 2016. This would split the Red Bull-owned teams’ technical direction, but may be the only practical way to secure both squads’ places on the grid.
The situation has left drivers and staff in limbo, with Daniel Ricciardo describing the prospect of a Red Bull exit as a blow for the sport. Mercedes’ Toto Wolff commented that, while he is not involved in Red Bull’s management, it would be good for Formula One if the team continues.
With Austin approaching, the outcome of Red Bull’s engine negotiations will determine whether both Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso line up for the 2016 season. For the latest on the ongoing crisis, seeMarko targets Austin for Red Bull engine crisis breakthrough.
