Force India could be rebranded Aston Martin Racing in 2016

The Sahara Force India Formula One team is in discussions with Aston Martin for a deal, which will see it being rebranded as Aston Martin Racing for 2016. The talks involve Johnnie Walker as well.

If the deal does go through, it will be the first time in more than 50 years that the Aston Martin brand will be used in Formula One. The British manufacturer had raced in the sport in 1959 and 1960.

Mercedes-Benz, who supplied engines to Force India, owns a 5% stake in Aston Martin. The German carmaker is also expected to supply AMG engines for upcoming road cars.

Aston Martin has been making losses, but it will like to have presence in Formula One, where its rivals, Ferrari and McLaren have had a long stay. The company was in talks with teams such as Red Bull and Williams as well.

The Sahara Force India Formula One team has not been in a strong position financially. At the start of this year, there were reports of it being in danger of folding up as well.

Source: Reuters