Aston Martin, one of the most venerable names in the automotive world, could be returning to Formula 1 racing soon, after a brief stint in Formula 1 during the 1959 season where they competed in four races and returned for another two Grand Prix in 1960 before exiting the sport. Team Principal Vijay Mallya told reporters that talks are underway to potentially rebrand the team for the 2016 Formula 1 season as part of a deal with Aston Martin and Johnnie Walker.
Mallya declined to provide more details about the talks in Friday's FIA press conference, but added that 'tri-partite' negotiations are underway with Aston Martin and Diageo, whose Johnnie Walker brand is set to switch from McLaren to Force India next year.
"Yes, there are discussions on with Aston Martin. Yes, there is excitement on both sides, but it still has to go through due process before we agree and shake hands on a concept, whatever that concept may be ... we have not exchanged anything in terms of an outline or draft contracts." He added, "This is a sort of tri-partite discussion that is going on which involves Diageo with its Johnnie Walker brand as well."
If this discussion comes to fruition, it would also suit Force India's engine supplier Mercedes who holds a five per cent stake of Aston Martin and the German manufacturer is believed to be backing the move.
Aston Martin was rumoured to be considering a move into F1 earlier this season having reportedly approached Red Bull Racing in a deal that would have included a Mercedes engine deal, though this wouldn't venture beyond a discussion stage.
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