Mercedes has agreed to supply Lotus with Formula One engines from 2015 in a long-awaited deal that will allow Renault to focus more attention on Red Bull, according to reliable paddock sources at the British Grand Prix on Saturday.
Though the move was not confirmed, Renault’s head of trackside operations Remi Taffin said: “I think it makes life easier for Red Bull to go towards what they wish and there is no downside for anyone.â€
Lotus has been in discussions with Mercedes for several weeks following a disappointing start to their 2014 season and the switch of suppliers is believed to be agreed, if yet to be announced formally.
The move, revealed by autosport.com, will leave Renault with only three teams to supply next season.
Taffin told autosport.com: “If it is three teams next year, it will be less of an income from customers, but not at a level that it will prevent us from doing the job we want to do.â€