Although the German media often works itself into a frenzy over very little, much like its British counterpart, some stories that originate in the German press are a little more credible than others.

On Sunday, Welt am Sonntag published an article suggesting that BMW might not simply supply Sauber with engines for 2006 but could possible buy out the Swiss outfit.

There has been gossip linking Sauber and BMW for some time - ironic when one considers the long (fruitful) relationship the Swiss manufacturer previously enjoyed with Mercedes-Benz.

In recent months there has been talk of BMW providing Sauber with engines in 2006, with Frank Williams confirming as much last week - much to the embarrassment of all concerned.

Former BMW Motorsport director Gerhard Berger made no secret of his frustration at the Bavarian company's failure to go it alone and was highly critical of the relationship with WilliamsF1.

With the Grove outfit already talking down its 2005 chances, certainly in the opening races, BMW might indeed be looking elsewhere.