F1 Rumours, 2 of 2: Ross Brawn, Flavio Briatore, Renault-Lotus and HRT-Williams
From GMM
Brawn admits days numbered if 2011 car disappointing Ross Brawn has admitted his days as Mercedes team boss are numbered if he cannot power the German marque's name to the top of F1. Team figures are not hiding the fact that a major restructuring is about to take place, with one example being the rumoured drafting-in of Nico Rosberg's former Williams engineer Tony Ross. Brawn insists Schumacher is staying put and denies he is at odds with the German manager Norbert Haug, but acknowledges that he needs to deliver a much better silver car for 2011. He has explained this year's problems as due to fighting in 2009 for the team's survival as Brawn GP last year, whilst also pushing Jenson Button to the title. HRT to buy Williams gearbox in 2011 The struggling HRT team has emerged as a likely customer for technical support by Williams in 2011. Last month it was reported that famous British team Williams could be set to supply its hydraulic systems and gearboxes to one or more of the sport's small new teams. In 2010, the standard Xtrac systems have proved outdated and unreliable, and Lotus broke ranks to arrange of a supply of Red Bull's technology for 2011. It is believed Hispania Racing (HRT), the back-of-the-grid Spanish team, has been in talks with Williams about the systems. Briatore to come back in 2013? Flavio Briatore is preparing to put aside the crashgate scandal and return to formula one for the benefit of the sport, claims Bernie Ecclestone. Briatore would want to return in a new "business" role in 2013. "We, and he, will overcome the setbacks [of the scandal] and get on with the job of putting on a fabulous show for the fans worldwide and living our lives," the Briton added. Renault finally signs Lotus engine contract As the dark Korea paddock emptied on Saturday night, word spread that Lotus has finally secured its engine supply contract for 2011, whatever the current status of the dispute with Group Lotus. "If we haven't announced anything yet it means we have not signed anything yet," team boss said earlier. After Renault, the next step will be the announcement of Kovalainen's new deal for 2011, with his current teammate Jarno Trulli also tipped to return next season. |
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