Toro Rosso commits to multi-year agreement with Honda

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Scuderia Toro Rosso has linked its destiny in Formula 1 to Honda for the next three years and will be powered by the Japanese manufacturer from 2018.

Toro Rosso is partnering with Honda as a result of Renault moving to McLaren.

But the deal could also lay the groundwork for a possible Red Bull Racing-Honda tie-up from 2019 when Renault will no longer supply the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

As difficult and unsuccessful as Honda's efforts have been since it's return to the pinnacle of racing in 2015, the Faenza-based outfit expresses its optimism in seeing the partnership flourish in the future.

"Everyone in our team is very much looking forward to working with Honda," says team boss Franz Tost.

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"Ever since its founder Soichiro Honda entered his motorcycles in events, racing has always been a central part of the company’s ethos.

"It’s a very exciting challenge and I hope that both parties will gain a great deal from it as we develop together.

"Honda has a long history in Formula 1, dating back to 1964 when it first entered the sport with its own team and, as an engine supplier it has taken five Drivers’ World Championship titles and six Constructors.

"This heritage, together with the full confidence that we have in Honda’s capabilities to succeed, make me strongly believe that we will achieve a fruitful future together."

Honda President Takahiro Hachigo underlined the efforts undertaken recently by Liberty Media and the FIA to ensure a satisfactory outcome of the complicated multi-lateral discussions which have dominated the scene in the past weeks.

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"Toro Rosso is an experienced team with a youthful energy and history of nurturing the stars of the future," said the Japanese executive.

"Everyone at Honda is looking forward to working with Toro Rosso, and we are excited to start this new chapter in our Formula 1 journey with them.

"I would like to express our appreciation to Liberty Media and the FIA for their cooperation toward the realization of this partnership.

"Honda and Toro Rosso will work as one team to strive for progress and a successful future together. We appreciate the support of our fans as we begin this challenge."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.