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Mercedes confirms engine talks with Williams for 2014

Williams is lining up a Mercedes engine deal for 2014 © Sutton Images

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Williams looks likely to switch to Mercedes engines next year after the two have been engaged in talks over the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.

The introduction of a new V6 turbo engine formula for 2014 has kicked off speculation of several teams changing suppliers as costs ramp up. Williams is currently supplied by Renault but the French engine manufacturer is believed to be one of the most expensive options for 2014.

Mercedes will supply its factory team, Force India and McLaren in 2014 but lose the latter to Honda in 2015. Mercedes executive director Toto Wolff said his team was keen to retain three customers under the new regulations and confirmed talks with Williams, a team that he still holds shares in.

"It's clear we are losing an engine customer in 2015 and for Mercedes it is important to have a regular business case and it is important to have at least three customers from 2015 onwards," he said. "This is why we are having certain discussions and Williams is one of them.

"It would be for 2014, because nobody would sign a one-year deal with anyone."

Renault will supply Red Bull and Caterham in 2014 and is expected to add Toro Rosso to that list before the end of the year. Lotus, currently powered by Renault, has not confirmed its plans but has a long history with the French manufacturer dating back to its time as a factory team.

Sauber, supplied by Ferrari this year, also has not confirmed its plans for 2014 but said over a year ago that its first port of call would be Ferrari. With Cosworth leaving the sport, Marussia is also on the hunt for an engine supplier and has held talks with Ferrari and Mercedes.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.