Mercedes Motorsport boss Toto Wolff says that there are currently no guarantees that the German manufacturer will remain in Grand Prix racing beyond the 2020 season.
Mercedes returned as a full works outfit in 2010 following its takeover of Brawn GP. Since its return to the pinnacle of motorsport, Mercedes has collected 53 wins and three constructor championships, all won under the 1.6 litre V6 hybrid formula which was introduced in 2014.
"Mercedes decided in 2009 to compete not only as an engine supplier but also with its own team in Formula 1," Wolff told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We have committed ourselves until 2020, but what happens then is unclear. In my opinion, we will stay in Formula 1 if the sport develops in a positive way."
Mercedes, and all F1 teams, will indeed reassess how the sport evolves, both techically and commercially, under the management and guidance of Liberty Media, F1's new owner.
As for Toto Wolff personally, the 44-year-old says that he won't remain in the very demanding world of Formula 1 forever, insisting that he'll leave the day his job no longer provides the satisfaction he seeks.
"I came to Formula 1 as an investor with Williams. In 2012 I got this role at Mercedes. It's now 2016. I will not stay in F1 forever, let's say a few more years. As long as I am having fun at work.
"The situation is that I love what I do and I want to work with the same people with whom we have achieved such fabulous results. At the moment, I am negotiating for another two years.
"My work today is extremely intense and involves a great emotional commitment. When I'm no longer enjoying it, it'll be time to do something else."
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