"I think I am capable of a podium finish, but top spot would be even nicer, " he added.

BBC: Dunlop ponders road race options

"I am excited to become part of a highly talented and capable technical organization, " said Lowe, who follows 2008 world championship-winning driver Lewis Hamilton in swapping McLaren for Mercedes, in a statement.

CNN: Tech guru Lowe back in the fast lane

Second, I am not yet persuaded that the USSR necessarily wants to play or is capable of playing a constructive role in the global economy.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy