It was previously reported that the Force India Formula One Team would be revealing a new team name at their car launch at the pre-season test, but it appears that the team may be undergoing more than a name change. The team is reportedly up for sale and a British energy drinks company may be looking to take over ahead of the 2018 season.
Vijay Mallya is reportedly looking to offload the team, amidst his legal battle with the Indian government over some money laundering allegations. Rich Energy, a British energy drinks company is reportedly talking with the team management to arrange a purchase of the team for an estimated £200m.
Rich Energy is already involved in Formula One from a sponsorship standpoint. The company signed a partnership deal with the Monaco Grand Prix organizers just last June, set to host the rich Energy yacht at the race this season.
Force India previously suggested that they were considering a name change, due to the lack of Indian investors and sponsors. The new team name would appeal to a global market and attract international companies. However, there was no mention of a team ownership change at that time.
