BMW not coming back for F1's 2013 engine era - Theissen

Even with greener and more road relevant engine rules on their way for Formula One, BMW is not expected to return any time soon.

That is the view of Dr Mario Theissen, the German carmaker's motor sport director and former BMW-Sauber team principal.

BMW pulled out of Formula One at the end of last year, insisting that its focus will instead be directed towards "sustainability and environmental compatibility".

In 2013, F1 will install a new engine formula, featuring small turbo 4-cylinder units with an emphasis on energy-recovery KERS technology.

But when asked by 422race.com if it will entice BMW back onto the grid, Theissen answered: "Don't expect that."

Instead, BMW is focusing on Le Mans-style sports car programmes and probably the German DTM series.

"When we pulled out, this was a decision for many years, because it takes many years to put something together like this," added Theissen.

"And the main reason was that we wanted to focus on production car racing instead of formula car racing."