McLaren is actively assessing its engine options as it contemplates moving away from its current Mercedes supplier in light of the new regulatory changes set for 2026.

In November last year, the team based in Woking reaffirmed its commitment to Mercedes, securing an extension of their partnership until 2030.

However, with Alpine potentially discontinuing its Renault engine operations, Mercedes appears poised to secure a new customer contract to fill the gap left by Aston Martin, which is transitioning to Honda.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, both McLaren and Williams are apprehensive about Mercedes' capacity to support a third team, given the impending introduction of much more complex hybrid engines starting in 2026.

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff is eager to strike a deal with Alpine. "Only when they have taken the strategic decision of whether they want to continue their engine program or not, we would dive into our agreements," he stated.

Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, acknowledged visiting the new Red Bull Powertrains facility, a collaboration with Ford. "I have a great relationship with (Ford CEO) Jim Farley," Brown commented. "We met last year and then visited the factory. That was before we decided to extend our contract with Mercedes."

Despite these connections, Auto Motor und Sport suggests that Brown has continued his discussions with Red Bull.

However, following his recent stinging criticisms of Red Bull team leader Christian Horner, Brown remarked with a smile, "I don't think I'd like to be seen there at the moment."