Red Bull has reached an agreement to continue using Honda’s power unit after the Japanese manufacturer left Formula One next year but is dependent on a vote to freeze engine development, according to Helmut team adviser Marko.
Honda announced in October last year that it will end its partnership as an engine supplier at the end of the 2021 season.
Red Bull, who finished second to Mercedes champions and have Dutch driver Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez from Mexico this season, want to take over the intellectual property of a Honda engine rather than become a buyer of other manufacturers.
“Everything was settled between us. It’s time,” Marko, who is close to Red Bull billionaire owner Dietrich Mateschitz, told the German publication Auto Motor und Sport.
“But it is only right that we have received written confirmation from the FIA that the halt of development on the engine side is coming.
“We are awaiting the FIA’s decision,” said Austria, who said the situation should be clarified by an e-vote of the FIA commission some time next week.
The conventional V6 turbo power units are expected to be replaced in 2025 and the cost of continuous improvement would be higher than all major manufacturers.
The Commission represents teams, manufacturers, F1 and the FIA with a majority needed until the freeze is agreed.
Renault would be tasked with giving Red Bull engines as the manufacturer currently supplying the smallest crews. Mercedes has four crews using their power units and a Ferrari three.
Honda is a partner of both Red Bull and the AlphaTauri sister team. Renault only has its own factory clothing.