McLaren are to formally decide “early this month” whether Honda or Renault will supply their 2018 engines, Executive Director Zak Brown has confirmed.
The Woking outfit is seeking a divorce from the Japanese manufacturer after growing tired of their ongoing struggles.
The team held talks with Renault bosses Cyril Abiteboul, Alain Prost and Jerome Stoll on Friday in Monza after being rejected by Mercedes and Ferrari.
With rivals now beginning to develop their 2018 challengers, it is imperative McLaren finalise their engine plans in the coming weeks.
“This is the month we decide, probably early this month, is the time we’re going to take a decision on our direction for next year,” Brown confirmed.
“We’re going to sit down next week with guys that are much smarter on power units than myself, and take a view on what we see [Honda’s] plans are and what they’ve accomplished.”
Brown says it will be a solely sporting decision, with little immediate consideration for any potential financial issues.
“The best thing for McLaren is to make the best sporting decision possible, and in the business will follow suit,” he explained.
“We’re here to win. That’s what makes us successful. So we’re going to take a sporting decision.
“We can’t afford not to be on the podium. So it’s a big decision that has lots of elements to it, and economics are one.
“Fortunately we have extremely committed shareholders that we can make a sporting decision and deal with the economics.”
It is understood the deal could hinge upon an agreement between Honda and Toro Rosso since Renault would otherwise be supplying four teams.
