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Johnny Herbert believes Mario Illien will make Renault stronger

Ilmor engine guru to assist with development in 2016

Sky Sports F1's Johnny Herbert believes Mario Illien's involvement with Renault could see Red Bull return with a much more competitive package in 2016.

After an engine supply saga that ran for most of this season, the former world champions will continue to use Renault power next year, although the power units will be badged as TAG Heuer.

And despite Renault's struggles since the new hybrid turbo units were introduced, Herbert believes the input of Ilmor engine guru Illien can see the team make giant strides forward.

"Mario Illien started with Ilmor back in the 1990s. He's a very clever man who produced some very good engines and of course, that was the start of Mercedes and we know how good that has ended up being as well," said Herbert.

"So I think his relationship with Renault will only make it stronger. His know-how and their know-how together is only going to make the whole package stronger.

"I think Red Bull will be the team to make big steps over the winter."

The Red Bull chassis looked strong on non-power dependent tracks such as Monaco, Hungary and Singapore, and in the rain at the US GP in Austin this year, and Sky F1's Anthony Davidson believes more horsepower will see it become even better.

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"Any driver knows the importance of power," he said

"With power comes increased downforce because the engine can pull it through the air and with that comes more grip, but the chassis is already great anyway at Red Bull. So if they get more power by this, it is only good news."

Red Bull reveal engine deal
Red Bull reveal engine deal

Red Bull seal deal to run TAG Heuer-branded Renault engines in 2016

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