Horner expects a significant number of retirements in Australia
With the technical revolution expected in 2014, some teams might have surprises during the opening race in Australia. According to Christian Horner, head of Red Bull, half of the grid could retire during the race. He fears seeing a two-speed Formula 1.
The single-seaters in Formula 1 have become increasingly reliable over the seasons. It is becoming increasingly rare to see a multitude of retirements in races as was still the case about ten years ago.
But this situation may well change in 2014, a crucial year for the discipline which will face numerous changes in technical regulations, both in terms of aerodynamics and engine. For Christian Horner, the team principal of the reigning world champion Red Bull team, this could lead to an interesting situation during the first races of the year: “I think we could see a very high percentage of retirements. Maybe even around 50% for the first race.”
Among the elements that will pose problems, fuel consumption remains a concern: Fuel will be a challenge this year because we will be limited to 100kg onboard. However, reliability will be key during the first Grand Prix races. Additionally, we will only be allowed five engines for the entire season.
But despite everything, Horner thinks it will be even more difficult for the mid-grid teams with fewer resources than the top teams: At the back of the grid, there will be a significant challenge to overcome in terms of the costs that this new power unit will generate. The differences between the teams will be greater. Every time there is a technical revolution, the teams with the funding, resources, and facilities have a more successful product.
For the British leader, in 2014, Formula 1 could be at two speeds: « I think that could be the case in 2014. That’s why stability is very important. »
