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London - Formula 1 journalists are wondering if McLaren's work relationship with Honda could be on unsteady ground.
The British team made progress in 2016, but the now more than two-year relationship with Honda following the Japanese carmaker's return to F1 has been otherwise troubled.
McLaren-BMW pairing
So it is with interest that some commentators digested this week's news that McLaren's road car making arm is teaming up with BMW on an engine project.
McLaren Automotive chief Mike Flewitt said: "This is an exciting project that plays to the strengths of all partners.”
READ: McLaren and BMW to join forces for new engine... again
But already, some are wondering if the new McLaren-BMW partnership could eventually lead to a foray in F1.
V6 turbo in-the-making
Manuel Franco, the correspondent for the Spanish sports daily AS, said he has heard rumours that BMW is in fact working on a "V6 turbo", which is the configuration of today's F1 power units.
Franco said: "It is also inevitable to recall that there was recently talk of BMW's return to F1, and that there may be a secret hybrid V6 turbo project ready to launch.”
BMW pulled out of F1 after 2009, following a works foray with Sauber.