Christian backs Mercedes’ George Russell, claims the F1 tire blanket ban might not be the right path towards sustainability

Christian Horner insisted that the sport should not ban tire blankets and rather make them sustainable.

Christian backs Mercedes’ George Russell, claims the F1 tire blanket ban might not be the right path towards sustainability

Christian Horner (image via Autosport), George Russell (image via RacingNews365)

Formula 1 has been experimenting with the idea of banning tire blankets. Pirelli has developed blanket-free tires that could have an effect in 2024 if teams vote in favor of a tire blanket ban this month. However, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner revealed his fear over the proposed blanket-free tires before his team took part in a test with the new rubber in Silverstone.

The 49-year-old admitted that the Milton Keynes-based team would reserve its judgment over the new tires till Daniel Ricciardo gives feedback after the Silverstone test. Although, Horner was skeptical about the proposed ban on tire blankets. The Red Bull team boss, believed that drivers did not favor this change. He said, “I don’t think it is what the drivers want.”

Christian expressed his concern about blanket-free tires. He said, “My fear with these things is that when you think you are going to achieve something simplistically that would create better racing.” The Briton believed that the new Pirelli rubber could drive up costs in the sport as drivers try to push and heat the tires in the out laps instead of providing more action to fans.

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Christian Horner insists on keeping tire blankets in F1

Max Verstappen in the pitlane with the Red Bull crew (image via Autosport)
Max Verstappen in the pitlane with the Red Bull crew (image via Autosport)

The Red Bull team boss was convinced that tire blankets could continue doing the job in Formula 1. The 49-year-old believed that instead of looking into blanket-free tires, the sport should work on improving the blankets in the coming years. Horner insisted that it would be better if F1 tried to have tire blankets in a more sustainable manner.

Blanket-free tires can be introduced next season if the teams vote in favor of the rule change. However, drivers such as George Russell and Charles Leclerc have been vocal against introducing blanket-free tires. Red Bull and Haas are set to participate in the final blanket-free Pirelli test at Silverstone later this year. This test will take place after the British GP.

Thus, Christian Horner has clarified that banning tire blankets might not work for the sport. The 49-year-old cited the concerns of the drivers and even the possibility of higher running costs. However, it remains to be seen if Horner changes his mind after Daniel Ricciardo gets a chance to drive the RB-19 with blanket-free tires.

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