While they may not be interested in shooting themselves in the leg by powering Red Bull, Mercedes are more than open to providing Manor Racing with engines in 2016
As of right now, Manor is using Ferrari’s engines from last season, which aren’t exactly dominant, but they’ve shown to be extremely reliable this year, with both cars often finishing races together without incident.
The thinking behind Manor getting help from Mercedes in 2016 is based on the fact that Lotus (or soon to be Renault), is going to drop their Mercedes engines, leaving room for the Yorkshire-based Manor team.
Mercedes head of motorsport Toto Wolff recently opened up about Manor and said that “On the engine, we had some discussions and they’re interested in exploring the competitive environment. They have a Ferrari engine today but it’s a young team and a new team and they need to meet with all engine suppliers and make the best deal for yourself. This is why we’ve been talking to them.”
According to the regulations, a manufacturer can only supply three teams with engines, but Mercedes received special permission from FIA this year to supply Lotus as well, which means that there’s a chance it might work out in Manor’s favor too, if they can agree to a deal.
Story references: planetf1
PHOTO GALLERY
