Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff confirms the company has discussed the possibility of quitting Formula 1.
The German manufacturer returned as a full works team in 2010, taking over the Brawn GP outfit, and has won five consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles since 2014.
However, as talks over an overhaul in regulations continue for 2021 and with other factors to consider, Wolff admits parent company Daimler does constantly evaluate Mercedes’ entry.
“We had the discussion in the board because as a large corporation and a brand you need to choose ‘do you want to be in here for the long term?’ and go through cycles,” he explained via PlanetF1.
“There might be times that will be very difficult, like the early 2010s, and then there will be years that are great.
“Are we prepared as a brand to stick to Formula 1 long term and go through these cycles?
“Or on the other hand, is the environment changing and do we want to take the maximum success and then take a decision on whether to go or stay?
“I think that the truth lies somewhere in the middle.”
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There is also Mercedes’ interests away from F1, with the company preparing to enter Formula E from Season 6.
But in the meantime at least, the Austrian was keen to stress the brand’s commitment to F1.
“We are not pulling out,” he stated.