Bernie: Red Bull deal ‘sorted out’

Bernie Ecclestone has allayed concerns that Red Bull and Toro Rosso could leave the sport over an engine deal, saying “everything’s been sorted out”.

Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz has threatened to quit Formula 1 at the end of the season, saying if they don’t get fast and reliable engine supplier then he will end his participation in the sport.

Officials have been in talks with Ferrari, but reports in Russia on Friday suggested that the Italian manufacturer have rejected requests to supply one of their main rivals with power units that are of the same standard as the works team.

Despite concerns that the sport could lose four cars next year, Ecclestone told reporters: “Everything’s been sorted out so I wouldn’t worry about it.

“We don’t want them to drop out. I think they have sorted it all out now.”

Rumours in the paddock also claim that Ferrari are only willing to give power units to Toro Rosso while another report stated that Red Bull are set to make a U-turn by signing a new deal with Renault.

The French manufacturer powered Red Bull to four consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships, but they have failed to keep up with Mercedes since the introduction of the V6 engines, which ultimately led to an ugly divorce a few months ago.

However, there has been no official confirmation from Red Bull, Ferrari or Renault.