Horner: Red Bull and Renault in harmony

Although harsh words were spoken just last season, Christian Horner says Red Bull’s chassis and Renault’s engine are starting to come together.

Red Bull have had a good run of last with a victory in Spain, a pole position in Monaco and more points in Canada as their relationship with Renault is again beginning to pay dividends.

Asked about the French manufacturer’s power unit and its part in Red Bull’s recent run, team boss Horner told the official F1 website: For sure it is a big element. Chassis and engine have to work in harmony. We have started to see that this is coming together again.

“Obviously there have been some strong things said in the past – but that prompted action in Viry. Management changes were made and new personnel brought in, and that we are starting to see

“It is a very cordial relationship now, and one that has been extended for another two years.”

The Englishman also hailed the arrival of Mario Illien at Renault but says it was more than just the engine guru’s arrival that has led to Renault’s improvement.

“Well, Mario has a lot of experience – and that is an asset,” he said.

“But fundamentally the restructuring under Remy Taffin that has gone on in Viry – the wise recruitment of the right people from some of their rivals, and encouraging the talent that was always in Viry to step forward – made the change.

“Now we start to see the fruit of that.”