Haug: No deadline for Honda deal

After Honda insisted that it would not provide engines for any buyer for its Formula One team and Ferrari ruled out adding the outfit to their customer list, autosport.com revealed on Monday that Mercedes could step in.

At the launch of the McLaren MP4-24 today, Haug said his company had been approached to provide engines and that such an arrangement was still possible despite the new season being only two months away.

"They approached Martin (Whitmarsh) quite a while ago and of course the FOTA meeting when (Honda's exit) was announced was the first time everyone learned that there was a problem," said Haug.

"The team principals being there decided that if there was a possibility to help then one should help. We were asked then as Mercedes-Benz.

"The timing is anything else but fantastic, but we can still do it. There is not a deadline like tomorrow or next week, but time is running."

When asked if there was a cut-off date by which a deal had to be finalised, Haug replied: "Certainly not two weeks before Melbourne, but the decision-making process is ongoing, but there is not a deadline within the next couple of days."

He said Mercedes were ready and willing to assist if Honda Racing were rescued by a suitable buyer, but that he was currently awaiting developments regarding the team's future.

"I am not informed currently of how situation at Honda is developing," he said.

"I think the people there did a good job, we have a good relationship with Ross (Brawn), we have known him for a long time, and it would be great if the team could be on grid in Melbourne and if we could contribute with engines.

"This is not a sponsorship deal, it is a financial deal and we need to get the finances right, and then we can help."