A offer between McLaren as well as Audi involving the British carmaker’s formula 1 division is still on the table, a new report suggests, despite McLaren’s denial of the initial takeover story.
The financial Times reports that Audi, as part of a larger Volkswagen group plan to re-enter F1, might look to use McLaren’s recognized racing arm to bring the German premium brand into the sport.
New McLaren 720S GT3X 2021 review
The report, which cites two people “familiar” with the talks, claims discussions are still at an early stage as well as no completion of any type of offer is expected until next year. It likewise suggests that the VW group is wanting to enter both Porsche as well as Audi as two branded F1 teams, allowing them to pool resources as well as technology.
Advertisement – short article continues below
Initial media reports suggested Audi was wanting to take control of the entire McLaren group company as well as that a offer had already been done. McLaren released a statement to the contrary, calling those reports “wholly inaccurate”.
“McLaren’s technology technique has always involved ongoing discussions as well as collaboration with relevant partners as well as suppliers, including other carmakers,” it continues. “However, there has been no modification in the ownership structure of the McLaren Group.”
The statement quashes rumours surrounding a done offer between the two brands however does not address reports of a potential sale. German industry publication Automobilwoche first reported on Sunday that both Audi as well as BMW were interested in acquiring McLaren. The latter has because denied the report entirely, while A spokesperson for Audi said: “In the program of our tactical deliberations, we are continuously evaluating various ideas for co-operations.”