Williams has reportedly rejected an attempt by Marussia’s owner to merge the two teams in an attempt to form a stronger, more financially resilient outfit.
Whilst the terms of the proposed deal aren’t clear, it’s believed Marussia owner Andrei Cheglakov attempted to buy Toto Wolff’s 15 per cent stake in Williams.
Cheglakov is reportedly tired of Marussia’s competitiveness and is keen to see them move up the grid. Whilst William’s isn’t doing much better, the Russian billionaire believes merging budgets, talent and facilities would result in improvements.
The deal, according to Auto Motor und Sport, had the backing of Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone, but was rejected by team principal Claire Williams on the grounds that the team wishes to remain independent.
A similar deal could still be done between Marussia and Sauber according to the report. Driven by the lack of available sponsorship and investment – with Sauber’s Russian backing now looking unlikely – F1 teams are having to tighten their belts or find alternative means to bolster their budgets.
Of course both Marussia and Sauber have links to Ferrari with their engines and co-owner Peter Sauber is keen to sell up after buying the team back in 2009.
It could mean there are only ten teams on the 2014 grid, though if the deal were to proceed, it’s more likely the merger itself would take effect the following season.
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