Mercedes Denies Reports About F1 Exit, Says 'F1 Involvement Is Not Up For Debate'

German automobile manufacturer Daimler AG "has denied reports about a possible withdraw of its subsidiary Mercedes from F1," according to BILD. Daimler spokesperson Jörg Howe said, "Our F1 involvement is not up for debate." With this statement, Howe "reacted to media reports that Daimler shareholders DWS and Union Investment demand the withdraw of Mercedes F1 factory team." The two investment companies "reportedly believe that F1 is not up to date and criticize the overdue success of the team." Howe added: "We have created new structures to secure long-term success and soon compete at the top again." Daimler has returned to F1 with its Mercedes factory team in '10. However, since its return the team has only won one grand prix (BILD, 2/17).