Christian Horner, who returned to the Formula 1 paddock last weekend, praised Red Bull’s engine department after the team’s power unit was recognized as the strongest in the field at the start of the 2026 season.
Under the FIA’s ADUO (Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities) system, the Milton Keynes-based team has been classified as having the most competitive internal combustion engine on the grid. The verdict came as a surprise to many within the paddock, as Mercedes had widely been expected to lead the way in engine performance.
However, the recognition also comes with a significant drawback. Because Red Bull’s engine has been deemed the benchmark, the team led by Laurent Mekies will not be allowed to introduce performance upgrades to its power unit during the season, giving its rivals the opportunity to reduce the performance gap.
Christian Horner praises Red Bull’s engine project
Horner, who stepped down as Red Bull team principal a year ago, admitted he was deeply impressed by what the engine division has achieved.
“When I think about that engine… five years ago, that factory was only producing bubble wrap,” he told Sky Sports F1.
“To be judged as having the best engine in Formula 1 while still being a startup shows that those guys have done an incredible job.”
A team effort with key technical partners
The former Red Bull team principal also highlighted the contribution made by the project’s technical partners, stressing that the achievement was the result of a collective effort.
“A huge thank you also goes to our partners: ExxonMobil for the fuel and Ford Motor Company. It has been a true team effort, and I think what has been achieved is still underestimated.”
“Nobody thought we could beat Mercedes”
Horner concluded by emphasizing just how unexpected Red Bull’s achievement has been.
“Nobody thought it would be possible to launch with an engine that was better than Ferrari, Honda, Audi and even Mercedes.”
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