Recent rumors about Damon Hill (UK) leaving the Williams team at the end of this year have continued by him possibly driving for Ron Dennis and the McLaren-Mercedes team in 1997. Mercedes, who have been slowly improving in their performance with McLaren and Formula One, find themselves interested in Damon Hill due to BMW, their rival engine manufacturer in Germany, joining forces with the Williams team. It is alleged that Mercedes would back the financing of Damon Hill in order to possibly carry the No. 1 on their car next year, remain the top German manufacturer, and to strengthen their overall position in Formula One.