Speculation is mounting that Lotus could be set to make a return to Formula One, more than 15 years after it last competed in the sport.
The team would takeover BMW Sauber, and be backed by Malaysian oil giant Petronas and Lotus, which is owned by Malaysia's national car maker Proton.
BMW Sauber announced it would be pulling out of the sport last month and Peter Sauber, who owns a 20 per cent stake in his former team, has reportedly been in Malaysia to discuss a potential takeover with BMW’s chief sponsor Petronas.
Commenting on the reports, Swiss newspaper Blick said: “In his luggage could be good news for the future.”
Lotus named Dany Bahar as its new CEO last week and he has strong motorsport connections through his time at Red Bull and more recently, Ferrari.
He takes over on 1 October and speaking on his new job, he said: “I am looking forward to taking on the challenges as CEO of this legendary and iconic company with a peerless motor sport history.
"I can't wait to get my plans underway in October.”
The Lotus Formula One name is currently owned by F3 team Litespeed and it lodged an entry to take part in next year’s championship, although it was originally overlooked. Litespeed, which is spearheaded by Mike Gascoyne, is believed to be ready to do a deal with BMW Sauber to secure a place on the grid next year.
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