Mercedes announce a takeover of Brawn GP

Mercedes-Benz have announced they are taking over the Brawn GP Formula One team. Mercedes engines powered Brawn's Jenson Button to the world championship last season while the team also claimed the constructors' championship. They are now set to increase their involvement while Button has been strongly linked with a move to McLaren to team up with fellow Briton Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes are reportedly going to take a 75 per cent controlling interest in Brawn, although they will continue to be the engine supplier to McLaren. Team principal Ross Brawn is expected to remain in his role, however, the future of his drivers is more uncertain. The new Mercedes-Brawn team are tipped to go for Nico Rosberg as their number one driver - a move that would be popular in Germany - with his countryman Nick Heidfeld his likely partner. Neither driver has been confirmed although on Sunday Mercedes Sports boss Norbert Haug revealed he was attempting to secure Heidfeld, who has driven for BMW since 2006. "We are speaking with Nick Heidfeld as well," Haug said. "Mercedes-Benz supports the idea of signing an experienced and capable German driver. There is however no reason to finalise the driver situation too hastily."

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ITN | November 16, 2009

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