Manor gets Mercedes engines for 2016

The Banbury-based team had been evaluating its options for next year, and particularly whether to stay with Ferrari or switch to Mercedes.

But with Ferrari potentially facing a capacity headache as Red Bull pushes for a deal, Manor has opted for a switch in a move that should give it a decent step up in performance.

Works parity deal

The deal will be for 2016 specification engines, and Manor will also tie up with Williams for supply of transmission and suspension components.

Team principal John Booth said: "I am delighted to announce our new power unit partnership with Mercedes-Benz for the 2016 season and beyond.

"Although there were many factors governing our selection of an engine partner to help power us towards our long-term ambitions, ultimately the strength of the Mercedes-Benz package speaks for itself.

"2015 has been a rebuilding year in every aspect of our operation. Although we have not been able to make the incremental strides in competitiveness that the team has enjoyed in previous seasons, we have put in place a strong foundation from which to progress.

"Together with the potential we are seeing with our 2016 car in the wind tunnel, the Mercedes-Benz Power Unit will assist our return to aggressive performance development with effect from next season."

Lotus switch key

Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff said at the weekend that a swift conclusion of the Manor deal could happen if it was confirmed that Renault would take over Lotus, and free up its power unit supply.

With Renault clear that it is pushing on with completing the deal, Mercedes was able to commit to Manor.

"Mercedes-Benz has a clear Formula 1 philosophy based around our works Silver Arrows team and supplying benchmark Power Units to independent customer teams.

"We believe this approach provides Formula 1 with greater strength in depth and ensures a deeper level of competitiveness throughout the field.

"In anticipation of Renault's takeover of the Lotus F1 Team, we are pleased to announce Manor Marussia as a new customer of Mercedes-Benz.

"It is a tenacious team with a fantastic competitive spirit, and we are all excited to see what step forward they can make next year with their new car coupled with the Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Power Unit."

Manor's engine announcement, and the likelihood of Lotus taking Renault engines, means only the two Red Bull teams are now without power unit deals for 2016.