Honda won its first victory since returning to Formula One at the Red Bull Ring last year and overall made decent progress in 2018 and 2019. It is expected that the Japanese are now close to Mercedes and Ferrari. This is also indicated by the freeze on the development of power units – if Honda were far behind its rivals, Red Bull would be against it.
Honda will bring an improved engine to Austria. It is expected to focus traditionally on improving performance and reliability – by the way, upgrades for reliability will continue to be allowed, but FIA approval will be required.
“We have an engine upgrade,” confirmed Christian Horner. “Basically, we’re introducing what would be the number two engine, but it will become our first engine.”
In addition to the engine, Red Bull will also bring new parts. Already during the filming day, changes were visible on the front wing and floor. Helmut Marko previously stated that these are parts originally planned for three postponed or canceled races.
“A lot of work has been done in all aspects of this car, and since the factory reopened in early June, it’s a race against time for these updates to get to the car.”
“We are starting the second year of our relationship with Honda. We feel much more integrated. We enjoyed a great debut season, when Honda won three races and now, of course, we want to build on that. They are ambitious, they share the same ambitions as we do, they have worked extremely hard between seasons and, of course, they are entering this year with greater expectations. “
Foto: Getty Images / Rudy Carezzevoli
