According to French publication Auto Hebdo, Renault could keep the Lotus moniker in 2016 as the constructor inches ever closer to buying out the Enstone-based squad.
Renault signed and issued a Letter of Intent signalling a Lotus takeover in late September, but negotiations have been dragging on ever since. Deputy team principal Federico Gastaldi even revealed that the deal could be delayed until December in the wake of a long acquisition process.
However, Auto Hebdo reports that Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn should finally give the green light to the agreement this week with an official announcement expected soon afterwards.
With 2016 set to be a transitional year, Renault could elect to keep the Lotus name for next year. The rationale behind such decision would be to avoid tarnishing the French manufacturer’s image in case the new outfit proves to be uncompetitive.
No matter which designation the squad eventually goes by, its driver line-up will consist of Pastor Maldonado and Jolyon Palmer.
Mexican Grand Prix - Driver ratings
Use the red tabs on either side of the screen to scroll through more Formula One news and features
Click here for the F1 drivers' girlfriends gallery
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton both declared themselves hopeful of fighting for podium finishes in…
Lando Norris is preparing for an aggressive recovery drive at the Belgian Grand Prix, with…
Once again, George Russell was left searching for answers after another frustrating qualifying session exposed…
Max Verstappen credited Red Bull teammate Isack Hadjar for playing a crucial role in securing…
Formula 1 fans were treated to an epic qualifying session at Spa-Francorchamps, but toppling championship…
Kimi Antonelli delivered another statement performance in Belgian Grand Prix qualifying to claim his sixth…