Formula One news
Mallya confirms McLaren and Ferrari talks
30 October 2008Force India F1 boss Vijay Mallya has confirmed he is negotiating with both McLaren and Ferrari to supply Forec India with a gearbox, engine and KERS system in 2009. Even though the team has an ongoing contract with Ferrari for next season Mallya isn't worried as he said he can easily end the deal with Ferrari.
Speaking about his team's request Mallya explained: "I have asked for the entire drivetrain and KERS package from both potential suppliers. Ferrari are not very sure that they can give me the entire drivetrain. Adrian Sutil suffered gearbox failure (in Shanghai). At the end of the day what sense does it make for me to have a great engine, a great KERS system, and a gearbox that's tentative? That's why I said go for the whole hog, a good tried and proven and tested package from the top two teams. And that's what I'm seeking to achieve."
And even though the team has got a contract with Ferrari Mallya believes he should be able to part ways with the Italians if the team would decide to team up with McLaren for next season. He said: "Ferrari and us are very, very close friends, we have an excellent relationship. We have told them exactly what we want. We are in discussion. They are aware that I have talked to McLaren, so everything is completely transparent from our point of view. And it is also recognised that if for whatever reason we need to part, it will be a very friendly parting. And that's all agreed.
"If they have incurred some costs developing engines for us for next year, we'll talk about it. We're certainly not going to be bloody minded. If they have incurred costs on my behalf, I think I owe it to them to offer to reimburse. Beyond that I think there is a very positive and friendly spirit on either side, and so they will not be any acrimony or any wilful enforcement of a contract."
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