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Lotus Braces for More Speculation in Spa F1 Paddock

With Renault's future in Formula One unresolved, Lotus says it will not make any announcements at Spa despite ongoing takeover and financial rumours.

By Editorial Desk Updated
Romain Grosjean driving the Lotus E23 Hybrid at the 2015 Canadian Grand Prix.
Romain Grosjean driving the Lotus E23 Hybrid at the 2015 Canadian Grand Prix. Veilleux79 / CC BY-SA 4.0

Lotus has confirmed it will not issue any statements about its future during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, as speculation intensifies over a possible Renault takeover and the team's financial stability.

Rumours have circulated for weeks that Renault is close to deciding whether to return to Formula One as a full works team. The leading scenario involves the French manufacturer acquiring the Enstone-based Lotus outfit, which would trigger a switch from Mercedes to Renault power units. Such a move would also affect Red Bull, which is seeking a new engine supply arrangement for 2016.

Lotus has also been the subject of negative headlines over alleged financial problems, including supplier disputes and claims that Pirelli threatened to withhold tyres. The team has not commented on the details, but these issues have added to the uncertainty surrounding its future.

No announcements planned at Belgian Grand Prix

Team management has stated that, despite the speculation, there will be no official news at Spa. Lotus says its focus remains on racing and achieving a strong result at the Belgian round. The team expects the rumour mill to remain active throughout the weekend.

Romain Grosjean driving the Lotus E23 Hybrid at the 2015 Canadian Grand Prix.
Lotus F1 Team's E23 Hybrid, the car at the centre of takeover speculation during the 2015 Spa Grand Prix weekend.

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