Mercedes could supply engines to Honda
Norbert Haug, Mercedes motorsport director, stated that the brand could supply engines to the former Honda team in 2009, provided that the new team is built on a solid financial foundation. Although Mercedes was already committed to supplying a team with Force India in 2009, Haug claimed it might be possible to make an offer […]
Norbert Haug, Mercedes motorsport director, stated that the brand could supply engines to the former Honda team in 2009, provided that the new team is built on a solid financial foundation.
Although Mercedes was already committed to supplying a team with Force India in 2009, Haug claimed it might be possible to make an offer to Honda.
« If there is a solution with an investor for this team, we would be ready to discuss it. But the financial situation must follow, » indicated the German.
« You cannot commit unconditionally in the current financial climate, but we are keen for Formula 1 to do well. Ross Brawn and Nick Fry have done a good job so far, if we can help them, we will. But financial feasibility is very important. »
Haug added that an additional client would not encroach on Mercedes’ current activities. And for good reason, engines now have to last for three races, and the car manufacturer must focus on introducing its KERS.
« It’s not the ideal time, that’s true. We have a lot to do with KERS and the new regulations, » he admitted.
« The staff at the Brixworth factory are working tirelessly. Even when we changed V8, there wasn’t as much to do. »
Ferrari decided this week that for the moment there is no conceivable agreement with the former Honda team to power the new single-seaters.
