F1 supremo says Red Bull engine situation "is being cleared up"
Friday 9 October 2015 17:28, UK
Bernie Ecclestone is confident F1 will have 22 cars on the grid next year, despite Red Bull's ongoing struggles to find an engine supplier for 2016.
It is understood Ferrari have decided against supplying the four-time world champions with power units next year and, despite another approach, Mercedes also remain unwilling to power their rivals.
The 2016 grid will be bolstered by newcomers Haas, but there is a danger Red Bull could walk away and Martin Brundle believes rebuilding their relationship with Renault is now their only realistic option for remaining in the sport.
But despite the mounting fear both Red Bull and Toro Rosso will leave leave F1, Ecclestone says their situation is being resolved.
"It is being cleared up whatever they are going to have," Ecclestone told Sky Sports F1.
Asked if it was being cleared up in a positive way for Red Bull, he added: "Well, if they get an engine it is positive [for Red Bull]."
Pressed if that meant there would be 22 cars on the grid next year Ecclestone declared: "Yes, for sure."
Indeed, Ecclestone is confident Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz is still committed to F1 despite reports saying he was prepared to withdraw backing from both of his teams.
"He's never fallen out of love with F1," Ecclestone added. "He just wants to be in a position where he can be competitive and that is what will happen and then he will be okay."
It is unclear whether Red Bull have finalised their divorce from current supplier Renault. However, the French firm have already said they are unwilling to provide customer units next year as they eye a return as a works team by buying Lotus.
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