Christian Horner has confirmed that Zak Brown visited Red Bull to discuss McLaren becoming a Formula 1 power unit customer when the new rules come into effect in 2026. McLaren has been holding talks with several power unit manufacturers ahead of the 2026 season, including Cadillac and a potential shock return to Honda, as it explores all areas. Currently the team uses Mercedes power units, but Red Bull boss Horner confirmed that McLaren could be a "potential" power unit customer for Red Bull Powertrains in the future. "I thought he [Brown] was coming for lunch!" Horner joked when speaking to media, including RacingNews365.com . "It’s obvious as that, as a power unit manufacturer for 2026, it’s inevitable that discussions are going to be held regarding potential powertrain supply. "That’s only natural that we would speak with potential customers."
Stella: McLaren looking forward at what's available
McLaren Team Principal, Andrea Stella, said that their current partnership with Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP) was "solid" but echoed the need for the team to consider all options with six suppliers registered for 2026. "We have a solid partnership with HPP. At the same time, it’s obvious that looking far forward, you want to understand what's available," he explained. "So, I think that's natural. Shouldn't be too much of a surprise." The relationship between McLaren and Red Bull has been rocky lately, after Brown sent out a letter to the FIA claiming that the team had "cheated" when it was found to have breached the 2021 cost cap. Horner responded to the allegations by saying it was "tremendously disappointing" to see Brown accuse the team of cheating, as he sought to defend their position in the saga.
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