Red Bull Racing Might Switch To Le Mans With Valkyrie-Based Racer

If planned F1 rule changes hinder the team’s progress beyond 2020, Red Bull Racing could quit Formula 1 and focus their efforts on Le Mans with an Aston Martin Valkyrie-based racer.

According to motorsport advisor Dr. Helmut Marko, his team is not interested in becoming a customer again and remains weary regarding upcoming rule changes. Currently, their Honda deal includes only the 2019 and 2020 seasons.

“As long as there is no engine regulation and no Concorde Agreement, neither Red Bull nor Honda will make a decision,” said Marko in an interview with Autosport. “However, we will certainly not become dependent again, as we have been in the past, when we were begging others and statements and promises were not kept.”

So what are the team’s options beyond 2020 if favorable engine regulations aren’t implemented?

“Stop is the option,” said Marko. “Or do something else, other racing series.”

“With the Valkyrie, Le Mans could be an option with hypercar rules. We went through with it, and it’s a sensational success. The cars were all sold out immediately. That’s another good pillar for Red Bull Technologies.”

Interestingly enough, a move towards Le Mans wouldn’t necessarily depend on a complete withdrawal from F1.

“If there was a cost cap in Formula 1, we would have to cut people. We don’t necessarily want that. We could then use them in such projects [Le Mans]. It still looks like you can run in the WEC [World Endurance Championship] at a reasonable cost with the base of our Valkyrie.”

He also noted that while Red Bull has never competed in the 24 Hours race, it’s something they’re currently thinking about.

“The main financial burden would be on Aston Martin, which is also clear, because at Le Mans the manufacturer wins. But that would fit into our concept.”