In the wake of Grand Prix 247’s exposure of the “fake” Mansoor Ijaz website it may yet be that the American financier of Pakistani heritage who heads Quantum Motorsport may still conclude a deal with Lotus in the near future.
Ijaz has clamed, “The original configuration of the Quantum deal is indeed no longer being pursued by us. That was my decision internally, and I conveyed that to Lotus and Genii before the Christmas break.
“During the break, we brought the appropriate professional assistance on board, and we conveyed our results on Wednesday to the team, and it was agreed that we proceed to conclusion,” added Ijaz.
Property tycoon Andrew Ruhan, who bought a 2 percent stake in Lotus last May, confirmed Ijaz’s claims, “At this moment of time, the original structure of the deal cannot be completed. However, we maintain discussions with Mansoor and still believe it is possible that a deal on a similar basis can be concluded.”
Speculation continues that Lotus is in a dire financial situation which is already impacting its 2014 campaign, starting with them having to miss out on the opening test at Jerez at the end of the month.
But Ruhan is adamant that all is well at Enstone, “This team is very stable – and we have taken action to make sure the future is secure.”
“Should talks be successful with Quantum then it will be a bonus, but we are not dependent on it happening,” added Ruhan.
This latest information contradicts what team owner Gerard Lopez said earlier this week, “The Quantum money never arrived. We have now killed the talks. For 2014, our budget is complete with our new sponsor PDVSA.”
Genii confirmed on 16 January to Grand Prix 247, “We can confirm that the ownership of Lotus F1 Team limited remains unchanged and that Mr. Mansoor Ijaz is not an owner of Lotus F1 Team Limited, considering [that] the Quantum Motorsports Limited transaction has [been] not completed.” (GP247)
Subbed by AJN.