'The imitation is flattering,' says Horner after Aston Martin copies Red Bull design

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner believes the fact that Aston Martin seem to be imitating their car design is a compliment.

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso claimed third position at the opening race of the 2023 Formula 1 season in Bahrain, while Red Bull clinched a dominant one-two with Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

Former Red Bull head of aerodynamics Dan Fallows is now the technical director at Aston Martin and has developed a 2023 package which looks similar to Red Bull's 2022 winner.

"I think it is flattering to see the resemblance of that car to ours, so it was great to see the three of them on the podium," said Horner.

"I think it demonstrates to all of the teams that it is possible.

"They have obviously done a good job over the winter, and they say imitation is the biggest form of flattery, and it is good to see the old car going so well!

"I think the operating windows of these cars [are] very narrow, and every team in the top three looks like it has developed its own theme.

"One team has adopted our theme, and it made a gain, so I guess at one point it is going to converge, and that can happen during a season."

On Aston Martin's performance, he added: "They looked very strong in the race. It was enjoyable to see Fernando up there, and it gives the 40-somethings hope that there is life in the old boy yet.

"He raced very well; he is still so competitive, and the Aston looks (like) a good car."