Christian Horner says there is "no discussion" within Red Bull about a possible official return to Formula 1 for Honda in 2026.
Christian Horner says there is "no discussion" within Red Bull about a possible official return to Formula 1 for Honda in 2026.
As a working collaboration with likely 2026 entrant Porsche looked increasingly likely in recent weeks, rumors began to emerge that Honda may rethink its decision at the end of 2021 to withdraw from the sport.
Red Bull is still using Honda engines, but under the Red Bull Powertrains label - although the Japanese manufacturer is still helping to operate and develop the power units.
"We opened the Red Bull Powertrains building earlier this week, which should enable us to produce really competitive engines from 2026," Horner said at Silverstone.
He explained that Red Bull and Honda are still in an "engineering partnership" until the end of 2025, with new engine regulations coming into effect after that.
"Of course there are discussions about Porsche and Audi wanting to enter the sport, which I think is very exciting for Formula One to have brands like that wanting to enter," Horner stated. "But that is subject to what the regulations will be, what the treatment of a newcomer will be, and so many other aspects like that."
When asked if he has heard that Honda is considering an official return to F1 for 2026, he replied, "That really is a question for them. Certainly there has been no discussion with us about that."