Red Bull have articulated the benefits of consolidating their entire operation "under one roof" since bringing power unit production in-house.
Christian Horner, speaking to the media, emphasized the strategic advantages this move offers as they prepare for the 2026 Formula 1 regulation changes.
“26 is a reset for everyone,” Horner stated, acknowledging the “huge risks” involved in becoming an F1 engine manufacturer.
Despite these risks, he highlighted the potential for synergy, noting, “We’re the only teams, other than Ferrari, to have everything on one campus under one roof. And we’re already seeing the synergy between engine engineers and designers and chassis designers.”
The transition has been somewhat cushioned by the significant overhaul in the upcoming regulations, which will include changes to power units, chassis, and aerodynamics.
Horner likened the Red Bull PowerTrains (RBPT) division to a “start-up company,” emphasizing the need for vigilance.
“Now, of course, you should not underestimate the challenge of taking a start-up company with a clean sheet of paper, literally four years ago, to take on Mercedes and Ferrari and the other manufacturers involved,” he said.
Despite the daunting challenge, Horner remains optimistic about RBPT’s prospects. “But we believe we’ve assembled a great group of people. We’ve got fantastic facilities and that [taking on Mercedes and Ferrari] obviously has to be the target.
“2026 will come around before we know it, but we believe we’re well positioned.”
This strategic move by Red Bull teams, integrating their power unit development into their main operations, positions them uniquely in the paddock as they look forward to the new era of Formula 1 racing.
