Mercedes torn over Red Bull engine deal

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Toto Wolff admits there are certain advantages to Mercedes potentially supplying Red Bull with engines in the future.

Red Bull has been enduring a strained relationship with Renault since the introduction of the current power unit regulations, with Mercedes having dominated since the start of 2014. Renault looks increasingly likely to purchase Lotus and return to being an F1 constructor, which will lead Red Bull without an engine partner after next season.

With the Mercedes power unit the strongest on the grid, and Honda's return with McLaren showing how difficult it is for a new manufacturer to enter F1 and be competitive, Red Bull has been linked with a switch to Mercedes which Wolff admits has its attractions.

“There is an agreement in place [between Red Bull and Renault] and we do not want to interfere in legal matters between the parties," Wolff told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“However, if I wear the hat of Mercedes-Benz motorsport and I speak on behalf of Formula 1, I must say that it is an attractive option because it would tie a brand that has appeal among young people with one that is winning.

“But of course, as head of the team, it's not really ideal to strengthen a competitor who knows how to build winning cars.”

Wolff has previously said he is "leaving the door open" to supply Red Bull in future, while at the Austrian Grand Prix Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne said he would be willing to add the four-time constructors' champions as customers.

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