Horner: Only 'logical' for Red Bull to hold talks with Porsche

Christian Horner says that it would be "logical" for Red Bull Powertrains to hold discussions with Porsche over a future engine partnership between the two companies.

On Thursday, the Volkswagen Group's Supervisory Board conducted a meeting to discuss an involvement in Formula 1 of its Audi and Porsche affiliates.

A subsequent statement released by the manufacturer suggested that a green light for Audi and Porsche's commitment to F1 would be confirmed upon the announcement by F1 of its 2026 engine regulations which, as they are currently defined, are highly appealing to Volkswagen.

For months, speculation has been rampant that Red Bull and Porsche will join forces in a straightforward engine supply deal, while Audi's F1 options involve either a tie-up or an investment in an existing team.

In Melbourne, Horner commented on Thursday statement by Volkswagen, saying that it was "great news for Formula 1 that two brands like that are looking at entering Formula 1".

The Briton did not admit to Red Bull being currently engaged in talks with Porsche, but the Briton did acknowledge the rationale of such talks taking place and the feasibility of a collaboration between its new Red Bull Powertrains unit and any potential engine supplier.

"It would be very easy, but it would have to be with the right partner of course," Horner said. "It would therefore be logical for us to hold discussions with both OEMs, or any serious OEM.

"For us, Powertrains is ongoing, it's on schedule, and we're really excited about the talent that we've managed to attract into the business."

• Read also: Volkswagen Group in final 'evaluation phase' of F1 plans

Red Bull Powertrains will begin operating on the team's campus in Milton Keynes from the end of next month with a workforce that is set to reach between 300 and 500 people.

"The first single cylinder engine will be imminently running for the 2026 rules," Horner revealed.

"We move into the new facility at the end of May. The recruitment, we've attracted some fantastic talent into the group. So yeah, we're pleased with progress."

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