Red Bull's Christian Horner concerned over 'cost' of banning tyre blankets in Formula 1

Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, has expressed apprehension regarding the proposed ban on tyre blankets in Formula 1, citing potential safety hazards and the subsequent rise in expenses.

Italian tyre manufacturer, Pirelli, are currently developing compounds for the 2024 season, with the aim of eliminating tyre warming blankets in line with the sport's sustainability objectives.

The use of blankets, which rely on electricity to power the heaters, have already been reduced in recent years. However, a complete ban would surpass current sustainability measures, as pre-heated temperatures have already decreased from 100 degrees Celsius to 70 degrees.

Furthermore, the time allotted for tyre heating has been limited to two hours prior to use, in an effort to minimize electricity consumption.

Despite the purported benefits of the ban, drivers have voiced concerns about the hazards of operating on cold tyres and the increased risk of accidents.

When asked about his stance on the proposed ban, Horner responded, "I think we should withhold judgment until we've conducted a test. Daniel (Ricciardo) will be driving the car during the test, and we will evaluate the feedback from that session. I am confident that Pirelli has made the right decision.

"I don't believe this is what the drivers desire," Horner added.

"My concern with such changes is that while attempting to achieve simplistically better racing, we may inadvertently incur significant costs in trying to rapidly heat tyres during out laps and other scenarios."

"Everyone currently uses tyre blankets, and they serve their purpose. Instead of eliminating them, I believe we should explore sustainable methods of powering them."

As fans eagerly anticipate the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria on Sunday, 2 July, Horner's apprehension underscores the ongoing debate surrounding tyre blankets in Formula 1.