Franz Tost's vision was pivotal in starting the relationship between Red Bull and Honda, through Toro Rosso in 2018 and then Red Bull Racing in 2019.

We sat down with Tost ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix to reflect upon the journey and the decision which proved the foundation of what is now such a successful, and World Championship-winning, relationship between Oracle Red Bull Racing, Scuderia AlphaTauri and Honda.

Why was Franz so sure that the partnership would work?

“I simply could not believe that Honda is not able to build a power unit which can win in Formula One” he said. “I was 100% convinced that with good cooperation you can win with Honda.

“In 2017 some people in the paddock said: ‘how can you decide to work together with Honda?’ and I just said to them: ‘please, ask me in five years’. 

“In the end, I think it’s clear we made the correct decision!”

Watch the full interview below: