Mercedes’ parent Daimler have moved to quash reports they are considering exiting Formula 1, stating it is their “clear intention” to continue in the sport.

Per reports in the German media, serious discussions were taking to place to trade the Mercedes F1 team to Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll in return for a larger stake in his company, while team principal Toto Wolff would expand his 30% share in the team and move from an operational to an advisory role at the Silver Arrows.

In response, Daimler have released a statement rubbishing the claims.

“Speculation regarding a potential withdrawal from Formula 1 continues to be unfounded and irresponsible,” it read. “The sport has taken the right measures to address the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and its future financial sustainability, and we welcome these steps.

“It is our clear intention to continue competing in Formula 1 as a Mercedes-Benz works team in the years to come, and to do so with our managing partner Toto Wolff.”
Only because Daimler is a publicly traded company do I put any stock in their response. Not that things couldn't change in the future, but if they were to do a sudden about-face, that might not be looked upon kindly by market regulators.

As for Williams, sad, but certainly not unexpected. Maybe Michael Latifi's and HSBC's debt refinancing/bailout can save them, along with whatever equity interest someone (rumored to be Latifi) may take. But it seems that the money men & debt holders will be calling the shots at Williams from now on. IMO, doing a complete management shakeup and stealing Otmar Szafnauer from Aston/Racing Point would be a good first move.

Does anyone here remember the particulars of how Tyrrell faded away, before BAR bought the team? Roughly similar to the Williams situation or not?