Christian Horner stated that “different DNA” of Porsche and Red Bull resulted in the parties not reaching the deal.
Porsche announced on Friday that they would not continue the negotiations with Red Bull regarding a partnership in Formula 1. Horner spoke about how the talks had unfolded.
“Obviously with Red Bull becoming a powertrain manufacturer in 2026, it was always natural to hold discussions,” the Red Bull Racing team principal told Motorsport.com.
“Those discussions have now been concluded, and the consensus was that it was not right for Red Bull’s involvement in F1.
“We committed to becoming a powertrain manufacturer a year and a half ago, or just over that. We’ve invested massively in facilities and people, and the first Red Bull engine fired up approximately a month ago.
“So it’s a tremendously exciting new chapter for Red Bull, and it’s never been contingent or dependent upon an involvement from a third party or an OEM. That was absolutely never a prerequisite.”
Horner noted that the companies had “different DNA” that did not allow them to reach a consensus.
When asked whether Porsche’s financial support would have been a bonus, he replied: “But only if it fitted with our DNA and our long-term strategy.
“There was never a financial discussion. Porsche is a great brand. But the DNA is quite different. During the discussion process, it became clear that there was a strategic non-alignment.
“Red Bull has demonstrated what it’s capable of in F1. And obviously, as an independent team and now engine manufacturer we look forward to going to compete against the OEMs with the powertrain as well as the chassis.”
