Honda and Red Bull Extend F1 Power Unit Partnership

Honda's Exit... Kind of

A lot was made of Honda's exit from Formula One last year as a works engine manufacturer. At first glance, it seemed the future of Reb Bull Racing's engine supplier was up in the air. What didn't make too many headlines, however, was the part of the story where Red Bull gets to continue using Honda engines for the next few years.

Loophole

In essence, Red Bull Racing negotiated an agreement that allowed them to continue using and developing Honda engines until 2023. By forming a company named Red Bull Powertrains Limited, the F1 team has been working with a Honda subsidiary, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) to build engines to power their cars.

Extended Until 2025

Last week, it was announced that the partnership, originally penned until 2023, has now been extended until 2025. With a power unit development freeze in place, Red Bull Powertrains and HRC will continue their successful run. This also delays the potential of a Porsche/Red Bull collaboration. 

Future with Porsche?

Red Bull's prospective joint venture with Porsche could see the German manufacturer take a 50% ownership of the racing outfit. The project would involve Porsche lending a hand in engine development, once the Honda deal is concluded. 

Back to Winning Ways

For now, Red Bull continues its quest for total domination in Formula One. Last year, lead driver Max Verstappen dethroned long-reigning drivers' world champion, Lewis Hamilton. The constructors' world championship went home with Mercedes for the eighth year in a row. But 2022 is looking like a great campaign for Red Bull to take both titles for the first time since 2010, Sebastian Vettel's final year with the team.

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