Mercedes engines at Force India in 2009?

The British journal ‘Autosport’ reveals today on its website that negotiations have allegedly begun between Force India and Mercedes-Benz. The aim would be to allow the Indian team to have access to McLaren-Mercedes engines and technical knowledge starting next season.

Currently, Force India is equipped with Ferrari engines, and the contract also covers the 2009 season. However, the team could exceptionally terminate its contract with the Maranello firm.

This change of engine supplier would also allow Force India to sign a more advanced partnership with McLaren-Mercedes to have technical features. The same source also reveals that Force India could serve as a guinea pig for the Woking team.

Thus, the English driver Paul Di Resta, currently in DTM (with Mercedes), could become the second driver at Force India to later return to the ranks of McLaren-Mercedes.

A spokesperson for McLaren confirmed these talks but warned that nothing has been signed yet.

« McLaren and Mercedes-Benz are convinced that independent teams are important for keeping F1 alive – in fact, it is thanks to them that F1 still exists today. »

« Consequently, wouldn’t it be interesting for the entire platform if we [McLaren] economically cooperated with one of them? Nothing has been decided yet, but we have engaged in various discussions and will inform the media as soon as we are able to do so. »

The boss of Force India, Colin Kolles, did not wish to discuss the subject upon their arrival in Japan. One thing is certain, the change will need approval from the FIA and Max Mosley. McLaren has already indicated that discussions are ongoing with the president of the international federation.