Honda confirms its program with Toro Rosso

Si Honda will lose McLaren at the end of the year, the Japanese engine manufacturer will remain in F1 by supplying the Power Units to Toro Rosso in accordance with what we announced to you in AUTO n°2131hebdo. The Faenza team will end its partnership with Losange at the end of 2017, the French manufacturer having signed a long-term contract with the structure. Woking.

“Everyone on the team is looking forward to working Honda, says Toro Rosso Team Principal Franz Tost. Since its creator Soichiro Honda entered motorcycles in events, racing has always been at the center of the company. It’s a very exciting challenge and I hope both parties benefit from it. »

“Honda has a great history in F1, with its first F1 entry dating back to 1964 with its own team. As an engine manufacturer, it won five Drivers' titles and six Manufacturers' titles. This heritage, along with the confidence we have in Honda's potential to succeed, makes me firmly believe that we will have a successful collaboration.", adds Franz Tost.

McLaren, however, ended its contract with Honda due to a significant deficit in performance and reliability.

“Toro Rosso is an experienced team with new energy and a breeding ground for stars in the making., says Takahiro Hachigo, president and director of Honda Motor Co. Ltd. We all at Honda are looking forward to working with Toro Rosso and are excited to begin this new chapter of F1 with them. I would like to express my thanks to Liberty Media (owner of the discipline) and the FIA ​​for their cooperation in bringing this partnership to fruition. Honda and Toro Rosso will work as one team to achieve progress and success. »

Toro Rosso will evolve next year with a new crew, Carlos Sainz Jr having just been confirmed at Renault Sport F1 Team for 2018. His contract with Honda runs until the end of 2020, from which time F1 is expected to offer new engine regulations.