Red Bull overachieving, says Horner

christianhorner

The manufacturer's dominance of the sport looks destined to end this year, with Red Bull having reigned supreme for four seasons but now facing a 174-point deficit to Mercedes.

There have been only two race wins this season - none for defending champion Sebastian Vettel - and no pole positions for either driver, though Daniel Ricciardo did triumph in the last outing in Hungary.

It appears that Red Bull have suffered more than many under the new regulations, but Horner is keen to focus on the positives.

"Compared to the theoretical handicap we have [with the engine], what we have actually achieved in the first half of the year is remarkable," Horner told AUTOSPORT.

"To have won two races, had front row starts, podiums, is a remarkable achievement, all things considered.

"Obviously, it's not where we are used to being but the team has shown real character to really dig in after a hideous pre-season and fight back.

"So there are an awful lot of positives we can take out of the first half of the year."

Horner also believes that Red Bull, and engine supplier Renault, could make big strides after the mid-season break with updates planned to make the car more competitive.

"We have got to make sure that we close that gap in the power stakes further in the second half of the year," he added.

"The most encouraging thing is that with the management changes there have been at Renault, they are very open to accepting that there are issues and they need to improve. 

"They are looking at all areas where they can improve."

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