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Prodrive linked to Renault F1 buy-out

Is David Richards heading back to the F1 paddock? © Getty Images

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Renault is looking into selling its Formula One operation to Prodrive according to a story in the French newspaper L'Equipe.

The exodus of big names from the sport this year, including Honda, BMW and Toyota, showed the fragility of the manufacturers' position in F1 and led to questions regarding Renault's future. Further doubt was cast over the team's plans when it declared it would not confirm its commitment to Formula One until 2010.

However ESPNF1 understands the Renault Team's executive board is meeting in Paris today, to discuss the future plans for the team. However if the decision to sell is taken it must still be ratified by the main car company board who are due to meet next week.

The report in L'Equipe suggested the team is now in talks with the British Prodrive team about buying the Renault's grid spot and facilities. It claimed Renault would continue to supply engines to the new team as well as honouring any commitments to Red Bull for the next few years. The story was written by Anne Giuntini, wife of former Renault engine boss Denis Chevrier.

"Our future is in F1 at some point," Prodrive public relations manager Ben Sayer told ESPNF1. "Our application to join the grid that was made in June was seen by many as one of the front runners but our proposal was to use the Mercedes engine.

"We were approached by the FIA to re-apply when BMW announced they were pulling out but at that time it was too late for us to produce a tea m and car that would be competitive. We are only interested in being in F1 if we can be competitive with a team that is also financially viable."

Richards has unfinished business in F1, he ran the Benetton team in 1998 and 1999. In 2002 he took control of the failing BAR team turning round its fortunes to take second in the constructers' standings in 2004. This led to Honda buying the team and Richards leaving before he could complete his three year plan.

Richards, who is also a director of Aston Martin, produced the Aston Martin LMP 1 with Prodrive in conjunction with Lola to race at Le Mans. The company also ran Subaru's rally outfit until the Japanese firm pulled the plug on its operation in late 2008.

"There is a busy year ahead for Prodrive," said Sayer. "We are looking to get back into the World Rally Championship and of course we are always looking at F1, 2010 looks like it will be a good year."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.