“Horner Suggests Wolff Is Less Informed About 2026 F1 Engine Plans”
According to Horner, he possesses more knowledge about the developments taking place at the newly established Red Bull Powertrains division, which falls under his official supervision and operates from the same site as the Red Bull race team in Milton Keynes.
Horner made these remarks while emphasizing the necessity of revising the 2026 regulations in order to avoid the creation of “Frankenstein” cars. He also expressed the need for a reevaluation of the current balance between combustion engines and electrical power.
In response, Wolff has implied that Horner’s concerns stem from Red Bull’s lagging progress in their 2026 development program.
In return, Horner has argued the contrary, stating that RBPT has actually been the first to uncover potential limitations of the new regulations due to their advanced position compared to some of their competitors.
“I’m not certain how closely Toto is involved in his engine business since he is a customer and not formally engaged in HPP’s business,” Horner remarked.
“Based on the information I’ve received from the business and as the program gains momentum, along with more concrete simulations, we’re discovering certain limitations that are inevitable.”
“I would say that it’s probably because of our advanced position that we’re encountering these limitations,” Horner added.
He also emphasized that his intention is not to promote Red Bull as an engine manufacturer, but rather to consider the bigger picture and evaluate the compromises required in the chassis regulations, particularly with regard to fully active aero compensating for the engine’s recovery.
“It’s not too late to fine-tune that balance. We don’t need to overhaul everything and start from scratch. It’s a matter of making slight adjustments to the fuel flow or the cell mass to ensure thrilling races,” Horner explained.
Red Bull’s development strategy will enable them to join Ferrari as the only two teams manufacturing both their chassis and power units on the same premises.
When discussing his role at RBP, Horner stated, “To be successful, you need a competent team of individuals, and efficiency is key. Personally, I believe in granting responsibility and accountability to those I empower because it serves no purpose for me to dictate how to design an engine—I lack that expertise.”
“What I can do is establish the direction, set targets, and ensure they have the necessary resources, infrastructure, and support. It’s about cultivating the right team and network, and effectively managing and allocating one’s time,” he concluded.
Additional reporting by Jonathan Noble
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 engine plans
What is the main topic of this text?
The main topic of this text is the discussion and contrasting views between Christian Horner and Toto Wolff regarding the 2026 F1 engine plans.
What does Christian Horner imply about his knowledge of the new Red Bull Powertrains division?
Christian Horner implies that he is more up to speed with the developments at the new Red Bull Powertrains division, which he oversees and is located on the same site as the Red Bull race team.
What are Christian Horner’s concerns about the 2026 regulations?
Christian Horner believes that the 2026 regulations need to be changed to avoid the need for “Frankenstein” cars. He also suggests that the balance between combustion engine and electrical power should be reviewed.
How does Toto Wolff respond to Christian Horner’s comments?
Toto Wolff suggests that Christian Horner is “frightened” because Red Bull is lagging behind in its 2026 development program.
How does Christian Horner counter Toto Wolff’s suggestion?
Christian Horner argues that Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) has actually discovered the potential limitations of the new rules first due to being well advanced compared to some rivals.
What does Christian Horner say about Toto Wolff’s involvement in his engine business?
Christian Horner mentions that Toto Wolff is a customer and not formally involved in HPP’s (High-Performance Powertrains) business. He questions how close Toto is to his engine business.
What does Christian Horner emphasize about Red Bull’s position?
Christian Horner emphasizes that RBPT’s advanced position allows them to identify certain limitations early on. He also highlights the need to make slight adjustments to ensure great racing without needing a complete overhaul.
How does Red Bull’s development strategy differ from other teams?
Red Bull’s development strategy involves manufacturing both their chassis and power unit on the same campus, which aligns them with Ferrari as one of the two teams adopting this approach.
How does Christian Horner describe his role at Red Bull Powertrains?
Christian Horner believes in empowering his team and granting them responsibility and accountability. He sets the direction, targets, and ensures they have the right resources and support for their engine design.
Is there any additional reporting on this topic?
Yes, there is additional reporting by Jonathan Noble.
More about F1 engine plans
- Renault doesn’t back push to tweak 2026 F1 power unit rules
- Why Horner is not a lone voice in F1 2026’s rules disconnect
- F1 chiefs say 2026 rules fears prompted by old data
