Red Bull allow Honda to use Toro Rosso for testing

Red Bull have given their permission for Honda to use Toro Rosso to test updates for the rest of 2018, despite there being potential grid penalties for Toro Rosso.

The Austrian side dropped Renault power units for Honda next season and now Red Bull are doing everything they can to help Honda improve their engine power ahead of next season's partnership.

Auto Motor und Sport report that Dr. Helmut Marko has allowed Honda to use Toro Rosso as a testing side for the remainder of the season, so it can benefit his team next season.

"Of course we leave the decision to Honda," Marko said.

"But if they find a tenth with the development, of course, they can try the expansion stage right in the race. Even if that means we're taking penalties for it."

Toro Rosso driver Brendon Hartley has already had grid penalties this season, because of the addition of extra power units to his pool this season.

Hartley is currently on his sixth power unit, when he is legally only allowed three.

He is also on his fifth MGU-K, when there is only two allowed and his fifth turbo, with only three allowed.

Pierre Gasly, Toro Rosso's other driver is in a similar position.

Gasly is on his fourth engine, fourth turbo, fourth MGU-H and his third MGU-K.