F1: Red Bull Yet To Finalise Renault Deal

RED BULL RACING boss Christian Horner says his team is yet to finalise an engine partner for 2010 as doubts over Renault’s Formula 1 future continue to cause uncertainty.

The team was rumoured to be close to inking an agreement for a supply deal with Mercedes-Benz next season, but McLaren’s intervention forced the Milton Keynes-based team to look at alternatives, including Cosworth.

However, Renault remains the most likely option, with the FIA naming the French manufacturer as Red Bull’s engine partner for next season

Horner told Autosport that a final agreement with the French manufacturer hasn’t been reached.

“I wouldn't read too much into the entry list. We're obliged to put an engine as per the regulations,” he said.

“But we are allowed to change the engine at any point up until the first race. Obviously we have to put an engine on the list and the most likely engine to have in the car next year, at this moment, subject to Renault's confirmation, is a Renault engine.

“We have to put an engine on the list, and that's the logical choice so far.”

Despite the delays in completing a deal, Red Bull has continued development on its 2010 challenger with a Renault engine in mind, citing Brawn GP’s success in making a late season engine swap should the need for a new partner arise.

Meanwhile, Renault’s uncertain future has prompted speculation newly signed driver Robert Kubica could be set to tear up his contract with the team.

Kubica’s agreement was reached before doubts began to emerge over the team’s future, leaving the Pole’s immediate career in a precarious position.

And with Mercedes Grand Prix reportedly interesting in signing the 24-year-old despite the continuing distraction of Michael Schumacher comeback rumours, a move across to the German squad could be a distinct possibility.