The Suzuka weekend promises to be a turning point in the history of Lotus. Indeed, it is by Monday that Renault must formalize its offer to buy back its former team since the High Court in London has given it until Monday to settle its overdue social security and tax obligations.<\/p>\n
In waiting until the last moment to formalize an offer, Renault is trying to lower the buyout price as much as possible, since the shareholders’ alternatives diminish each day.<\/p>\n
But this has an impact on the team’s operations. Thus, a delay in payment for transportation caused a delay in the delivery of the team’s equipment, leading them to start their setup later than their competitors. Similarly, the mechanics found the hospitality closed since Lotus was unable to pay the \u00a327,000 owed to the circuit for its use.<\/p>\n
As acknowledged by Matthew Carter, the team’s CEO, to our colleagues at Autosport, it clearly shows that the team is on the verge of bankruptcy and is at real risk of not making it through the season: “We need to make a number of decisions regarding what we need to pay and prioritize our payments. Circuit hospitality was not a priority at this time. We still hope to get the keys tomorrow. I know it doesn’t give a good image of our team and the sport, but it’s a reflection of where we are right now.”<\/p>\n
If yesterday the mechanics were able to benefit from the generosity of other teams for their food supplies, this Friday, they owe their salvation to Bernie Ecclestone who allowed them to use the canteen of the prestigious Paddock Club.<\/p>\n