Bernie Ecclestone says Red Bull could sit out the 2016 F1 season and return in 2017 with a new power unit supplier.

The four-time constructors champions are without an engine deal for next year having been rejected by Mercedes and Ferrari after terminating its Renault partnership a year early. While Red Bull has approached Honda in search of power units, it is likely McLaren will veto such a deal.

With the FIA pushing ahead with plans to introduce new power unit regulations to allow an independent manufacturer to supply teams in 2017, Ecclestone says Red Bull could take year out if it doesn’t agree a deal for next season.

“If they wanted to stay out – for one year, two years, three years – we’d be happy to have them back,” Ecclestone said.

And Eccelstone believes it is unlikely Honda will be allowed to supply Red Bull due to Ron Dennis blocking a move.

“They could only run Honda if Honda agreed and they won’t agree and have an argument with Ron, because Ron could sue them.”

That scenario would leave Red Bull’s only option as reconciling with Renault, but when asked if Renault is staying in F1, Ecclestone replied: “I don’t know. They haven’t made a decision…”

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