Key: Possible Red Bull-Honda deal good for Toro Rosso

Toro Rosso technical chief James Key is not concerned about no longer being Honda's exclusive Formula 1 power unit partner in 2019 should Red Bull strike an engine deal, believing it can only be a good thing for the B-team.

Toro Rosso picked up works engine support from Honda for 2018 following the Japanese manufacturer's split from McLaren, with the deal appearing to open the door for a possible deal between its senior team, Red Bull, and Honda for next season.

Red Bull F1 chief Christian Horner confirmed the team was keeping its options open for the future and would be paying close attention to how Honda fared with Toro Rosso through 2018, but has until May to give existing engine partner Renault a decision for next season.

Although Toro Rosso would lose its exclusive works backing and become the secondary partner were the larger Red Bull operation to receive Honda support, Key feels it would only act as a boost to the team.

"What Red Bull Racing do is ultimately their decision in the end, but if we can share an engine supplier, it would be very good," Key said.

"I think it’s an opportunity to work closer together on certain aspects, which would be good for both teams. So in that respect I have no issues with it.

"We have a separate deal to whatever Red Bull would have. It’s not a combined contract, it’s an STR contract for three years as a works deal.

"I think if Red Bull came onboard, it could only be added to that for us."