Verstappen welcomes Red Bull-Honda deal

Max Verstappen is not the last to criticize the lack of performance and reliability of the Power Unit (rebadged Tag Heuer at Red Bull). It is therefore no surprise to see the Dutchman delighted with the agreement between the Austrian team and Honda which will power the two Taureau Rouge teams in 2019.

“Given the performances they have shown this year, the progress they have made, especially in Canada, it all seems very positive, commented Max Verstappen at a press conference in the paddock of the French GP at Paul-Ricard. They continue their development by placing their staff in the right places. »

“I believe in (this deal) and clearly the team does as well since they signed the contract, added the Dutchman. We find ourselves in a situation where Honda only works for Red Bull and Toro Rosso, the engine will therefore be designed according to the car. I think that's also a very good thing. »

For its part, Fernando Alonso was not surprised by the news of the agreement between the two structures, he who suffered for two seasons with the Honda engine at McLaren before benefiting from the Power Unit of Renault after the British manufacturer ended the partnership with the Japanese engine manufacturer.

“What if I’m surprised? No, replied the winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the Castellet paddock. It’s difficult to analyze the choices of other teams from the outside. We don't have all their data. I am happy for them if they made their choice as well as for Honda which highlights its level of commitment in F1. There have been rumors for a few months and it's now official. »

Red Bull has achieved two victories this year with Daniel Ricciardo and occupies third place in the Manufacturers' Championship, 55 points behind the Team Ferrari before the French GP played this weekend at Paul-Ricard.