McLaren-Honda is currently holding talks with the FIA over the ‘obligation to supply’ rule that has been introduced for next season.
This rule will ensure all teams have a competitive power unit with the FIA forcing the manufacturer with the fewest customers to supply any Formula One team that needs an engine. This would currently be Honda who only supply McLaren whilst all other engine suppliers will already be supplying at least three teams from the start of the 2017 season.
McLaren is thought to be unhappy with the new rule but McLaren Racing Director Eric Boullier has confirmed talks are still ongoing between the team and the FIA.
“We are currently still discussing with the FIA about the outcome of this regulation, or, let’s say, this agreement between the FIA and the engine manufacturers,” Boullier told Autosport.
“Most of it, we agree with. There are still a few clauses where we may still have discussion ongoing.
“We have our opinion, our position.
“We are obviously investing with Honda a lot in the sport, making sure there is a competitive fourth power unit manufacturer soon.
“That’s why we discuss and may, at some times, have some opinions that are a little bit different.”
Honda’s head of F1 Yusuke Hasegawa admitted last month that Honda is not currently ready to supply a second team but they will be by next year.
“Just for supplying, we will be ready for next year – that is our duty.”
