Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes has no need to supply engines to Red Bull in the future and cannot do so if it is serious about continuing to win world championships.
The ongoing speculation about Renault's proposed buyout of Lotus has led to talk about who will supply Red Bull with engines, possibly as early as 2016 if it severs its current Renault contract. F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone is keen on Red Bull securing a works Mercedes deal after seeing the Brackley outfit dominate the sport since the introduction of V6 turbos last year.
Mercedes is thought to be reluctant to equip a strong rival with its power unit, especially after Red Bull demonstrated the strength of its chassis with its performances in Hungary and Belgium.
Asked if Mercedes should supply Red Bull with engines, Hamilton told Sky Sports: "I think if we're serious about winning world championships, probably not. What can I say? Red Bull is a great team. It would be like giving Ferrari our engine - we're here to win. We don't really need it, there's no financial benefit in it really. I think we're good where we are."
Mercedes arrives at the Italian Grand Prix having spent all seven of its engine development tokens but Hamilton is still expecting a strong challenge from Ferrari in front of the tifosi.
"I think Ferrari is going to be strong. They have been improving and growing race-by-race. We are improving race-by-race, but they have made the biggest gains perhaps this season. Naturally they will be wanting to impress on home ground and want to improve after a bad weekend at Spa, so I imagine they will be here all guns blazing. Then maybe Williams, they could be strong this weekend, but we will see."