Renault has today confirmed talks have taken place between itself and McLaren about a supply deal.
McLaren is deciding what to do with its engine next year after another dismal season with Honda.
And after Mercedes and Ferrari said they would not supply Mclaren they have been left with little option, despite Renault being reluctant to supply a fourth team.
“The situation is we have a multi-year contract with Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso,” said Cyril Abiteboul (Renaut team boss).
“So frankly we are open to discussions. I can confirm there have been discussions with McLaren, but right now there is a restriction in the regulation if we wanted to supply more than three teams.
“In addition to that, I don’t think it would be reasonable to believe that we could supply more than three without degrading the level of service, the quality of service, for the other teams.
“We have had discussions and frankly, we have contracts in place. We value the relationship with Red Bull. It is a long-standing relationship and we would like to carry this relationship until 2020, but if there is something to be done, why not?
“But right now I understand things are very quiet and they are not necessarily pushing for anything.”