But the Mercedes team principal also hit out, expressing anger at how he believed his team were harshly treated by some “laughable” decisions at Interlagos and that the gloves were now off as the Formula One world championship entered its final three, decisive races. It was reported on Monday that a takeover deal had been concluded, but the claims were swiftly dismissed by McLaren, the second oldest team in F1. “McLaren Group is aware of a news media report stating it has been sold to Audi. The majority shareholding in the McLaren Group is held by Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund. While a buyout has been denied, discussions with McLaren and Red Bull for collaboration are understood to be taking place, with Volkswagen looking for a competitive team to promote their brand. The Red Bull team principal, Christian Horner, believed it was the right decision, arguing it was simply hard but fair racing.

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