Renault is currently finalising arrangements to effectively buy out the Lotus F1 Team, F1i understands after cross-checking several sources in the Spa-Francorchamps paddock.

Enstone co-owner Gérard Lopez and Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn have reportedly met this week and an agreement in principle has now been reached. Although Lopez would keep a minor stake in the new structure, the shareholding process would not involve his Genii Capital Partners firm yet.

In order to seal its return as a works outfit, Renault would only be waiting for F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to make it an “historic team”, given the French manufacturer’s record in the sport. Such a move would indeed lead to Renault receiving a bigger slice of F1’s commercial revenues.

It is believed that Lotus F1 Team Ltd currently owes some £18 million (€25 million) to several creditors, suppliers, and contractors, while the debt to Genii Capital needs to be restructured in an effort to ensure a smooth transition.

Click here for Friday's gallery of the Belgian Grand Prix

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Pierre Van Vliet

Pierre Van Vliet is a respected and authoritative figure in F1 news circles and brings a wealth of information to F1i.com

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

10 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

12 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

13 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

15 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

16 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

17 hours ago