Kyvat ousted from Red Bull, Horner and Tost defend their policies

Gathered at a press conference on Friday on the sidelines of the Mexican Grand Prix, Christian Horner and Franz Tost, managers of Red Bull Racing et Toro Rosso, spoke about the waltz of the young pilots supported by the energy drink.

First file, evacuated at no charge: the definitive departure of Daniil Kvyat of the Red Bull structure. The Russian, ousted after abandoning in Singapore in September, then recalled for a quick and effective return to the United States (10th in Austin) “no longer has anything to do with Red Bull and can now freely decide on the rest of his career”, explains Franz Tost. At only 23 years old, the 3 GP2013 Series champion finds himself obliged to reorient his career in motorsport.

For Christian Horner, the unforgiving world of Formula 1 however, was lenient towards Daniil Kvyat. “He has had great support from Red Bull for years. He had the opportunity to “move up” to the A team, Red Bull Racing, in 2015. Unfortunately, Daniil did not show himself up to the task of, in our opinion, preserving his steering wheel (7th in 2015 with 95 points, ahead Daniel Ricciardo at 92 points, replaced by Max Verstappen early 2016). But I want to say that we always believed in him by giving him a second chance at Toro Rosso, which is very unusual in F1.", analyzes the boss of Red Bull Racing.

The current pair, composed of Pierre Gasly et Brendon Hartley, should thus continue its collaboration in 2018, in accordance with what we announced to you in issue 2136 ofCARHebdo, again available in digital version or to order. “There’s a good chance they’ll continue together next season.”, concedes Franz Tost. “They are two very fast and talented drivers. Pierre is all the same 2 GP2016 Series champion, he deserved this opportunity. We are keeping an eye on the future, and I believe the Toro Rosso drivers for next year will be ones to watch closely for Red Bull Racing's plans.", continues Christian Horner.

Inducted into F1 while leading the world championshipEndurance (WEC), Brendon Hartley also proved his legitimacy to continue his path in the discipline according to the Toro Rosso team director. “He has already won the 24 Hours of Le Mans as well as the LM P1 world ranking, the results speak for themselves. Brendon is very involved and passionate about motorsports. I can assure you that if we provide him with a competitive car, he will be there to fight for success in F1. »

When it comes to judging this musical chairs strategy of the young drivers stamped with the red bull, Franz Tost considers himself privileged. “It’s not chaotic. This shows the possibility that both teams can change their drivers in order to alter their performance. It’s a real privilege in this sport, no other team can do it like this. »