Ron Dennis’ time in the Formula One paddock may not be over as he ponders a bid for Manor according to reports.
The 35-year veteran was fired from his role as CEO of the McLaren Group last month after an attempted takeover with Chinese backing was rejected by shareholders.
However, it now seems that same money could be used to buy out current owner Stephen Fitzpatrick, who took over Manor in early 2015.
The OVO Energy boss has been looking for investment after the team lost out to Sauber in the battle for 10th place in the Constructors’ championship.
Dennis had spoken of starting a technology investment fund following his McLaren ousting, however, Manor does offer an avenue for him to remain in the sport as the team has technical links with McLaren as well as the association with racing director Dave Ryan, who is a former McLaren employee.
It’s not the only option the Banbury-based team has on the table. Speculation has linked Tavo Hellmund, previously involved in F1’s return to America in Austin, as a potential buyer as well as current sporting director Graeme Lowdon with backing from Indonesian businessman Ricardo Gelael.
The second option also ties in with the understanding Rio Haryanto is all but certain to be in one of the Manors in 2017 thanks to increased backing from Asia.
Indonesia’s first F1 driver had to step out after half of this season as his sponsors, led by his country’s government, were unable to find the funds to complete the season. However, after his dropping, his management team said a number of new sponsors had expressed interest meaning Haryanto was no longer dependent on government backing.
With Manor needing a financial boost, the future of Pascal Wehrlein is also uncertain. It will likely depend on if a new investor is found as to whether the engine discount offered by Mercedes in return for taking the German is sufficient.
Otherwise, with the Mercedes seat now all but guaranteed for Valtteri Bottas, Wehrlein’s final hope is Sauber. Talks with the Swiss team had taken place before Rosberg’s shock retirement and with Felipe Nasr’s backing drying up a seat is still available for 2017.
