Max optimistic about Honda deal: 'It's looking good'
Published on 21 June 2018 by Stefan Meens
Ahead of the French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard, the main topic debated at the Red Bull Racing Energy Center was the recent announcement that Aston Martin Red Bull Racing will switch from Renault to Honda power units next season.
Max is positive about the new deal: “Of course we’re not starting until next year with this new adventure but it’s looking good. Honda is going to be completely focused on us and Toro Rosso. Money is not an issue for Honda. That’s a good sign; it means they can keep developing.”
Last year, Max was a guest in the factory in Japan. He left feeling impressed by Honda’s facilities. “It looks good what they’re establishing there. It looked very efficient. Back then, the performance wasn’t that good but I think that has changed. Just look at Toro Rosso’s results. I think Honda are a bit freer to create and develop their engines, instead of being told what to do.”
“I belief in this project and so does the team, as they made the deal. The fact that Honda is only used by Red Bull and Toro Rosso is exciting. Everything will be tailor-made for our cars. That could be an advantage. I’ve talked at length with Christian Horner and Dr. Helmut Marko and told them my views. They’ve always kept me in the loop, which I appreciated because I like to know what the future of this team looks like.”
Max is uninterested in predicting the fruits of the new collaboration. “At the moment, I’m only focusing on this year. We’ll find out next year how things will go.”
Looking forward to this weekend’s Grand Prix, on a brand-new track, Max explains: “I’ve driven enough laps in the simulator to know the circuit. But it is not until the first free practice session that you can really start fine-tuning. I usually get used to new tracks quickly so hopefully it’s the same around here.”
A good qualifying will be crucial. “There are not many places to overtake, most turns are long where you can only follow. There are not any spots where you can send it up the inside and out-brake someone.”
