F1 Rumour: Mercedes To Lose Engine Priority To Aston Martin In Shocking Turnaround

Rumours of a civil war in Mercedes are bubbling up, but the reality may be that these simply aren't true.

We're just a single race into the 2023 Formula 1 season, and we're already buzzing with electrifying rumours that are sure to get fans talking. Following a disappointing start for Mercedes in Bahrain, whispers are circulating about a potential shake-up in the world of engine manufacturing.

In the lead-up to Sunday's second Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia, a British website set the cat among the pigeons at Mercedes. The story, which quickly gained traction in German-speaking countries, thanks to Austrian media, suggests that Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has been given an ultimatum: show a level of dominance within the next two races or risk losing priority from its engine supplier - of which will move to Aston Martin. 

The Stakes Are High For Mercedes

The factory team, featuring superstar drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, fell short of expectations in the season opener in Bahrain, finishing in fifth and seventh place, respectively. The underwhelming performance has left Mercedes in a precarious position, considering the triumph of Aston Martin and its new driver Fernando Alonso alongside injured Lance Stroll. 

While Mercedes grapples with the fallout of their lacklustre showing, Aston Martin is basking in the glory of their success. With Fernando Alonso securing third place, his 99th podium position of his career, and Lance Stroll crossing the line in sixth, the iconic British Constructor, powered by a Mercedes engine, emerged as a formidable force behind the dominant Red Bull.

Fact or Fiction: Is There Truth To This?

Is there truth to such rumours? No, I highly doubt Mercedes has told Wolff and the gang to belt up otherwise they'll be receiving sub-par engines to power the W14. It simply doesn't work like this. Every engine manufacturer has to send duplicate engines of the exact same performance and quality, as per the regulations. 

Red Bull consultant Helmut Marko commented on the rumours, rejecting the idea:

"Why should Mercedes make a competitor stronger? That does not make sense. Despite all the cooperation: At the end of the day, Aston Martin is a competitor for Mercedes in the passenger car sector. Mercedes will now do everything to make the season opener, which was disappointing for them, forgotten.

"In this ambitious task there is certainly no room to help Aston Martin.”

The Battle Continues

Regardless of rumours, the Mercedes team will be wanting to extract as much performance from their W14 duo at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix later this week as possible. With a different side pod shape coming in planned upgrades, fans can only cross their fingers for the Brackley squad.