Renault Sport are looking to supply a fourth team with engines next season, thought to be the Williams F1 outfit.
Currently Formula One has four engine suppliers, Mercedes, Renault, Ferrari and Cosworth. At present, all four manufacturers supply three teams – a limit set by the FIA.
Renault Sport’s managing director, Jean-Francois Caubet, confirmed they were discussing the matter with the governing body in an attempt to lift the maximum limit, enabling them to supply a futher team, alongside Renault, Red Bull and most recently Team Lotus.
“As we are speaking speculatively to a number of teams to expand our partner base, we are discussing our situation with the FIA so we are fully ready if the situation arises,” said Caubet.
Williams F1, currently supplied by Cosworth, are thought to be in advanced talks with Renault, to switch for the 2012 season before the new engine regulations are introduced in 2013.
The move could see some stiff opposition from the FIA and Cosworth however, with the small British manufacturer needing to supply a minimum of three teams for their venture to be deemed viable.
At the end of the 2010 season Cosworth lost Team Lotus, now supplying Williams, Virgin and Hispania. Ferrari currently supply their own outfit, Sauber and Toro Rosso, whilst Mercedes powers their personal interest as well as McLaren and Force India.
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