Wolff: Decision not to supply Red Bull was made at board level

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has admitted that the decision not to supply Red Bull with Formula 1 engines was tactical and taken at board level a couple of weeks ago.

Wolf informed the official F1 website, "We decided with our board that we as an engine supplier - and as a team - have worked hard and long to achieve the success we have today, after taking the decision to enter the sport again as a works team in 2010."

"Therefore we decided two weeks ago against exploring an engine supply to Red Bull. We wish to continue with our model to support independent, privateer racing teams - and to respect the relationships we already have in place with our customers - alongside our primary focus on the Mercedes works team."

Many believe the manner in which Red Bull's management publically criticised Renault, with whom they won eight consecutive F1 world titles in four years, has done them no favours in their quest for an engine partner.

It is also no secret that Wolff himself was not in favour of an engine deal with the energy drinks organisation, "I have never hidden my opinion. But we take decisions collectively and objectively, evaluating all the pros and cons, and not as individuals."

The Austrian added, "It is the opinion of somebody who is responsible for the Mercedes motorsport programme, responsible for 1,200 employees and who also has the responsibility to represent the Mercedes-Benz brand in the right way in Formula 1‎ - and to make sure it is represented in the right way by others, too. Full stop!"

With the relationship with Renault destroyed, and in fact due to end prematurely by mutual agreement, Red Bull have few options with regards to engine supply. Honda are struggling pitifully and not an attractive proposition, which leaves Ferrari as the only viable alternative.

Recently renewed talk of Volkswagen's interest in buying Red Bull, and launching their own F1 team, has gathered steam... Watch this space!