In December last year, Honda surprised all by withdrawing from the sport, leaving drivers and staff potentially without jobs. Of course, we all now know that Ross Brawn and Nick Fry saved the team and sensationally went on to take both world championships in a thrilling season of motor racing.

Earlier in the year, BMW also announced they would be leaving the sport at the season’s close, and the future of the Hinwil team is currently up in the air. It is hoped that Peter Sauber, the former owner of the squad, can reprise his role and keep the squad going, although currently the situation doesn’t look too good.

And now Toyota have become the third manufacturer in less than a year to pull out of Formula One.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces it plans to withdraw from the FIA Formula One world championship at the end of the 2009 season.

TMC, which had viewed its participation in F1 as contributing to the prosperity of automotive culture, remained dedicated to competing at the pinnacle of motor sports even in the face of the abrupt economic changes that started last year.

However, when considering TMC’s motorsports actitives next year and beyond from a comprehensive mid-term viewpoint reflecting the current severe economic realities, TMC decided to withdraw from F1. Toyota Press Statement.

Toyota have signed the recently agreed Concorde document, which essentially ties them to the sport through to the end of 2012. However, this position may be able to be transferred to Sauber if they can cobble together a team and financial backing.

Both Jarno Trulli and Timo were expected to leave the squad, with Glock being suggested as a partner for Robert Kubica in the second Renault. Jarno Trulli may end up with a new team, his experience perhaps being seen as a big enough draw over his lack of ultimate race pace.

Interestingly, Autosport are also reporting that Renault have an important meeting today to discuss the company’s future, and although they are expected to continue, I personally wouldn’t be surprised if the Enstone team decided to follow Toyota and bow out. The loss of Flavio Briatore and Pat Symonds amid huge controversy earlier in the year, combined with the loss of star driver Fernando Alonso, could be enough to sway the minds of those making the decisions.

Original article by BlogF1.

Toyota Withdraw From Formula One With Immediate Effect

Brawn GP have done very little running in the off-season in comparison to their rivals. They spent much of the winter in the Brackley factory dealing with various companies and wealthy individuals who were interested in buying the team. Throughout all this time, no car made its way to a circuit for testing, and the staff at Brackley feared their jobs might be lost.

However, as soon as the announcement that Ross Brawn had struck a deal with Honda to buy the squad, everything suddenly went into overdrive. The team ran privately at Silverstone before heading to Spain for the group tests at Barcelona and Jerez. And I don’t think anybody expected to see what they saw.

It would appear that the Brawn BGP 001 is pretty quick. This is something quite incredible when you consider the major shakeup in the technical regulations that has occurred this year. With such a change in the way the cars are designed, most teams were anxious to get as much running as possible. However, on the first day of the Barcelona group test, Button managed an astonishing fourth fastest time, just 0.2s shy of Trulli’s Toyota.

From there it just got better for the team. Third on day two, fastest on days three and four. As you could imagine, Brawn very quickly became the talking point of the final sessions. Although their outright pace may not be as superior as the large margins may suggest, the new car doesn’t look overly shabby.

In Jerez, Barrichello and Button maintained a dominant presence and both drivers appeared satisfied with the progress being made to the car. They may have been showboating in order to attract sponsors or just generate some hype, but some journalists who attended the tests also noted that the BGP 001 looked consistently quick over longer runs.

With a Mercedes engine for 2009 and a chassis that not only looks gorgeous, but appears to be performing well, we could see a sharp improvement over the disappointing 2008 campaign when the team were owned by Honda.

In keeping Jenson Button they have retained a favourite among many of the fans, and ensured this season will not be the first with only one Briton competing. And by re-signing Rubens Barrichello, they have kept a safe and steady pair of hands in the second chassis. Barrichello is experienced and will help the team iron out any kinks with the car.

So what can we expect from Brawn in Melbourne? Well, Bernie Ecclestone is excited. When the new points system was announced in March, Ecclestone used Button as example of how the idea of race wins equals championship could benefit the sport. If the Brawn really is as quick as the test times suggest, Jenson and Rubens should be fighting for victories in the first fly-aways. From there on in, things may not be as easy due to the larger budgeted outfits ramping up development.

Personally, I’m yet convinced of the Brawn’s pace, but it certainly is very exciting. Not only have the careers of two drivers and a factory full of staff been saved, but the reinvigorated team appear to be able to fight for points.

It’s already been said many times over, but it is worth repeating: I bet Honda are kicking themselves right now.

Previous Honda Previews

• F12008 Honda Preview
• F12007 Honda Preview
• F12006 Honda Preview

Original article by BlogF1.

F12009: Brawn GP Preview

A statement was made at midnight explaining that Ross Brawn, Benetton and Ferrari’s ex technical director and more recently, Honda’s team principal, has in fact purchased the team outright and renamed the squad Brawn GP. It was also confirmed that Mercedes-Benz, current suppliers of McLaren and Force India, will provide engines to the squad for the 2009 season.

Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello will drive the cars, the Brazilian hinting as much earlier in the week. While this leaves Bruno Senna waiting the wings for another year, the team will able to focus on ensuring their own stability and car development while pairs of capable hands steer the machines throughout the season.

To coincide with the statement, the Brawn GP website went live, although at the domain brawngp.com rather than the brawnracing domains that caught the eye of the media last week. However, it is only natural for companies to purchase competing domains to ensure the brand message remains intact.

The past few months have been extremely challenging for the team but today’s announcement is the very pleasing conclusion to the strenuous efforts that have been made to secure its future. Ross Brawn.

Ross then went on to pay tribute to Honda, the staff at Brackley and also to thank various people, companies and organisations who have helped the sale process and provided support during the past few months.

Firstly, it is a great shame that having worked with Honda Motor Company for so long we can no longer continue together. I would like to thank Honda for the fantastic co-operation and support we have received throughout this process – particularly those members of the senior management who were closely involved with concluding our agreement – and for the faith they have demonstrated in myself and our team.

I would also like to take this opportunity to pay due credit to our staff at Brackley. The levels of motivation and commitment that I have witnessed at the factory deserve the highest praise.

It would be impossible to mention all of the people without whom today’s announcement may not have been possible, however I would like to express particular appreciation for the support we have received from Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, the FIA (Fédération Internationale de L’Automobile), FOM (Formula One Management), FOTA (Formula One Teams Association), BERR (the UK’s Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform), Bridgestone, our other team partners and our many fans the world over.

The journey ahead will be challenging but exciting and we know we can count on their continued enthusiasm for our team and its ambitions. Ross Brawn.

The new car will be shaken down at Silverstone in the very near future and the team are expected to be testing in Barcelona next week as well as a final short run at Jerez just prior to flying the cars out to Australia.

This is, of course, very good news and ends months of agony for fans of the team, the sport and the drivers. It will be very interesting to see exactly how competitive the team can be, having done so little testing since the Brazlilan Grand Prix last November. An interim car was tested in November, but since then no running has taken place. Honda had pretty much given up on 2008 early in the season to concentrate on the 2009 efforts, and Button was particularly hyped at the prospects of the new car.

Let’s hope the car is quick out of the box and Brawn GP can at least keep up with the progress made by other midfield squads.

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Ross Brawn Is A Constructor: Honda Officially Becomes Brawn GP

For the team formerly known as Honda, having Rubens Barrichello in the second car is a no-brainer. Rubens may not be the greatest racer to have driven a Formula One car, but his experience is second to none – literally – and he will be able to provide stability in an area where the team will require it. Having two wise heads in the cars will enable the team to transfer to new owners who will be given the time to concentrate on ensuring it is stable and can move forward into the future. It really is a wise move for Honda, at least for 2009.

However, Bruno Senna doesn’t seem to agree and has spoken to Brazilian journal Agencia Estadao about his disappointment in the team’s decision. Senna may have every right to be disappointed, but like some of his contemporaries, the image he has presented to the world, both today and in the recent past, is one of petulance and spoilt-ness.

I’m kind of resigned to trying something else. I had a meeting today [Monday] with Ross Brawn and he cancelled.

I’m just a little upset because this situation has dragged on for so long, making me lose better professional possibilities.

Now I’m going to get together with my family, with my advisors, and decide what way to take.

Anything that I may do will be step backwards. The important thing is to keep Formula One as the top priority. I will bounce back. Bruno Senna.

No one made Senna lose these opportunities, as far as we are aware. And as for “stepping backwards”? Well, excuse me for pointing out the obvious, and again as far as we are aware, Bruno was never there to begin with. Close, maybe, but not actually there. Had a contract been signed, it would be a different story and one for the legal professionals to take up. But as a general view, Senna comes across as a spoiled child who didn’t get his sweeties this time.

The situation Bruno is in has occurred because the young driver was pinning his hopes on a drive with Honda for 2009. So much so in fact, Senna has spoken in the past and present of turning down other opportunities because Formula One was beckoning. However, with the withdrawal of the team and the ensuing complications of the sale, which is still to be confirmed, Senna remained loyal to a cause that as far as we know, made no official intentions of signing him.

With no apparent back-up for a race seat in 2009, Bruno is in a bit of a quandary. It will probably be relatively easy for the Brazilian to get a drive somewhere, but clearly Senna wants Formula One. It seems as though Bruno believes that he is ready for Formula One, and at a time when he is unemployed, made a statement to the media that anything he does in 2009 will be a step back if it isn’t in F1.

I can think of better ways to approach the situation.

Of course, Senna may have been given the intent of a drive in whatever comes of Honda in 2009, and therefore the 2008 GP2 Runner Up does have a right to be upset. But with the team in such disarray, with no firm future set out, the actions of Senna to apparently dismiss other options seems a little misguided. Assuming Bruno finds a seat somewhere for this season of racing, it will do him some good. Bruno is somebody to watch out for in the future, but right now, it is my belief that another year or two in lower formulae can only help.

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Bruno Senna Resigned To “Stepping Back”

The Team Formerly Known As Honda is expected to test a car this week ahead of the final group test at Circuit de Catalunya next week. The news of the test is encouraging, although the rumour is not new as this was speculated last week. However, the Yomiuri daily newspaper in Japan have run a story quoting a source at Honda as saying:

We expect to be able to make an announcement from the company and the team in the near future. Honda has been making all possible efforts to avoid the worst option of having to disband the team. Unconfirmed Honda Source.

Of course, we have all heard of speculation of this sort for a few weeks now and many people and companies have been linked to Honda since the Corporation made the initial withdrawal announcement last year. It would appear though that a management buyout is the most likely scenario, with Ross Brawn and possibly Nick Fry being to the two main participants in the deal. It was also noted last week that Caroline McGrory, a staffer employed in the legal department at Honda had purchased two Internet domain names; brawnracing.com and brawnracing.co.uk.

The possibility of Rubens Barrichello extending his Formula One career has hit the press today as well. Barrichello, who has driven for the team since 2006 after leaving Ferrari became the sport’s most experienced driver ever, and said at the time that he feels he has more to give to the sport and would like to continue.

Rubens was competing with Bruno Senna for the seat up until very recently, many (myself included) thought that Barrichello’s career as an active Formula One driver was over. However, should the Honda team be sold and assuming they have good financing in place, it would make sense to hang on to Rubens, the Brazilian driver being very experienced and able to assist with the transfer by developing the under-tested car. In other words, Barrichello is a safe bet, a consistent driver and takes away any worries of developing a rookie driver.

My faith says that next week I’ll be driving a competitive car in the tests in Barcelona – although I have no document in my hands that assures me of that. Rubens Barrichello.

Autosport are saying that the Barrichello deal is not yet signed, as the team are waiting to finalise the deal that will see the team saved. After which point further contracts can be negotiated and cemented. It is however common knowledge now that the team will use Mercedes-Benz engines, Vijay Mallya yesterday saying that the McLaren and Force India supplier had sought his approval before agreeing.

Mercedes-Benz have collaborated with Mallya’s team for 2009, supplying Force India with engines, gear boxes and technical expertise. The FIA usually only allow a manufacturer to supply two teams, which for 2009 would have seen Mercedes’ engines powering McLaren and Force India. However, the German motor company have presumably been given dispensation to supply Honda, for one year according to the Force India boss.

Well, the FIA rules say that an engine manufacturer can only supply two teams. As far as Mercedes is concerned, that’s McLaren and Force India. I think a special one-year dispensation, I understand, has been granted for Mercedes to supply the ex-Honda team just to keep it on the grid.

I could have objected but I chose not to because it is good for F1. Nobody likes to see a team disappear. We had unfortunately Super Aguri disappear last year and I don’t think it is good for the sport that one more team goes. Vijay Mallya.

Mallya’s spirit should be commended. As he said so himself, the deal could have been blocked, but in order to help the sport and the former Honda team, Vijay agreed. A good move, I believe.

The team is not out of the woods yet, and much can go wrong. However, while very late in the day, it is still just about possible for the team to make it Melbourne. Quite what state the car will be in is anybody’s guess, having not tested yet. I’m sure though, fingers are crossed around the world for a twenty car grid in Australia.

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Rubens Barrichello & Honda Closing In On Deal?

First it was Carlos Slim who denied being a potential purchaser for the Honda outfit, and then Dave Richards pulled out of the running. Then it was the turn of the management to add some hope to a deal being made before the first race, and more recently, Richard Branson has been associated with the squad. Even Bernie Ecclestone has apparently had his piggy bank rejected by the company chiefs.

Originally, Nick Fry and Ross Brawn stated that they had received a lot of interest in the team and had whittled the offers down to a dozen serious possibilities. However, Honda CEO Takeo Fukui told the press in Tokyo today they have made little progress in finding a purchaser since the team went up for sale in December.

There are various offers for the team but we have not seen any serious buyer yet. We find the sale process difficult. Takeo Fukui.

This slaps Ross Brawn’s and Nick Fry’s previous comments down. In late December and early January, the current team principal and team CEO spoke of lots of interested parties.

There has been a huge amount of interest. It’s now got to the stage where we need to filter out the serious from the not so serious. We’re all hopeful that something will happen and we’re anxious to turn up the wick again in the new year. Ross Brawn, speaking in late-December, 2008.

It’s looking very positive at the moment. We had, as you might expect, a huge amount of interest at the start, probably well in excess of 30 groups came to us. We have now narrowed that down to something in the region of a dozen, and we’re currently talking to Honda about what is the best bet for the future. Nick Fry, speaking in early January, 2009.

With less than a month to go before the cars need to be sent over to Australia for the first race of the year, a deal that would ensure the survival of the squad is looking slimmer and slimmer. According to Autosport, Mercedes-Benz have apparently put a deadline of this evening (Monday 23rd) to commit to purchasing their engine units for the upcoming season.

The clock continues to tick…

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Has It All Gone Pear-Shaped At Brackley?

For a start, Honda appear to be on their way to being saved, thanks to Richard Branson and his Virgin Group. The news that the entrepreneur is indeed talking with Honda and Bernie Ecclestone is encouraging and I’m sure I am not alone in hoping a deal can be put together in time for next month’s Australian Grand Prix.

Elsewhere in the sport, the Honda-owned Suzuka circuit have informed the media of their progress in making the upgrades necessitated by Ecclestone. According to the motor company’s CEO Takeo Fukui, the circuit should be reopening in April, well ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix in October. Honda also reiterated that just because their team wouldn’t be present, they are fully committed to the circuit and the events it hosts. And of course, as mentioned above, the team might still make it, albeit under a different name.

For me though, the most encouraging thing when looking at Formula One is the current crop of quality drivers. It was only a few years ago that there were less than a handful of top-class pilots lining up on the grids. The likes of Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso only being matched by Kimi Raikkonen in terms of outright pace.

But looking at the entrants for the 2009 championship, we can see an increased number of stars and stars in the making. Granted we no longer have the dominant Schumacher in his ultra-reliable Ferrari, but we do have some high quality talent who should be soaring ever further during the 2009 campaign.

The world champion is usually a good place to start when thinking about talented drivers, and there is little reason to doubt the abilities of Lewis Hamilton now that he has taken the crown. The McLaren driver may get a little flustered at times and make some bold moves when perhaps he should remain calm, but the skill of the young Briton is unquestionably great and Hamilton must be entering 2009 as the favourite for the title.

Kimi Raikkonen remains a great driver, even if his 2008 championship left many fans and pundits the world over scratching their heads. Despite his problems last time around, Raikkonen is still a naturally gifted racer and combined with a fast and reliable car that suits his style, there is little reason why the Finn cannot repeat the success of his 2007 season.

In the sister Ferrari is another talent, and although I still remain skeptical of his natural abilities, Felipe Massa has improved a lot in the last twelve to twenty-four months. The Brazilian may not be as consistent as his mentor was, but when it comes to winning from pole on a street circuit, you’d be wise not to bet against Felipe.

Fernando Alonso continues to impress, and his drives in Singapore and Japan showed the world that while the Renault was slow in development, the Spaniard could still win. Having lost little motivation after his soured stint at McLaren, Alonso put in some great performances in 2008, something which will hopefully be repeated this year.

Looking at BMW, many feel that their rising star is only a quick car away from emulating Raikkonen and Hamilton. Robert Kubica finally took to the top step of the podium last year and remained in the hunt for the title until the penultimate race. His abilities are unquestionably good and so many have tipped the Pole for greatness. It says a lot when his rivals believe they will be battling Kubica for titles in the years to come.

We also have the pleasure of witnessing the career of Sebastian Vettel, the young German who also took his maiden victory last year. While the win at Monza was helped by the poor weather, the fact remains that Vettel kept his car on the tarmac, made the correct decisions and drove an almost flawless race from lights to flag. All this in a car that really wasn’t all that great. Vettel is one of those drivers you know you will be seeing more of in the future.

There are also three other drivers who I feel deserve a special mention as well. These final three may not be on Raikkonen or Hamilton’s level, but they do deserve being classed as pretty good racing drivers. Nico Rosberg, Nick Heidfeld and Timo Glock. Officially they are all German, although Rosberg holds dual-nationality – born to a German mother and a Finnish father in Germany but raised in Monaco. Nico’s father, Keke, raced under Finnish colours back in early ’80s.

Nico deserves a mention following his two podiums last year in a car that really wasn’t good enough to finish much higher than the lower points positions at the best of times. Although Nico has been known to make some silly errors, he can also race pretty well when everything is right with the car. If only he hadn’t remained so loyal to Williams, the man would have likely been in the second McLaren by now.

Nick Heidfeld is a driver who is often under rated, and as Kimi Raikkonen was still included in the list of top drivers, I therefore felt it hard to not put Heidfeld in somewhere. Like his Finnish rival, Nick had a problematic season in 2008, but the man still drove his races reasonably well and scored a healthy tally of points.

And finally, I’ve chosen to put some faith in Timo Glock. While the Toyota driver is perhaps better known now as the man who almost upset Britain’s apple cart, many of the German’s drives last year left me feeling suitably impressed. This is Timo’s second stint in Formula One, but his foray in GP2 appears to have done him the power of good. Glock really highlighted to many the flaws in both Jarno Trulli and his predecessor, Ralf Schumacher, and providing he can handle the change in regulations, he should continue to make his team mate’s life that little bit harder.

So by my reckoning, we have five pretty handy drivers competing this year as well as a few who really aren’t all that shabby; a healthy increase from just a few years ago. The sport is returning to one if its great circuits and Honda’s Formula One team just might be on the verge of becoming a part of the Virgin empire. All things considered, Formula One really doesn’t look to be in bad shape.

Original article by BlogF1.

The Future Looks Bright For Formula One

Anthony Davidson is no stranger to the commentary having made guest appearances at the British and European rounds of the championship last year. In 2006, while on testing duties for Honda, Davidson joined James Allen in the commentary box for the Hungarian Grand Prix while regular commentator Martin Brundle was absent. Of course, the 2006 race at the Hungaroring went down in history as Jenson Button’s maiden victory. It was also Honda’s first race victory since returning to the sport, making the event even sweeter for Anthony.

Commentating gives me the chance to explain what it feels like to drive an F1 car to the limit, and to share the inside view on all of the demands that a driver faces over the weekend. Anthony Davidson.

It will be a great shame not to see Anthony driving, and as Formula One hypes the many younger talent coming through the ranks, it seems as though Davidson’s chance to race at the top of the motor-sporting ladder is getting slimmer and slimmer. It will be a pleasure to hear Davidson’s insights into the grand prix, and alongside David Croft, BBC Radio 5 Live have a strong team. It will though, be bitter sweet, as Davidson really should be the one the commentators are talking about, not with.

Image &copy HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Anthony Davidson Swaps Steering Wheel For Microphone

However, this post is less about the team’s entry in the record books, and more about the liveries. From 1999 onwards, when BAR first competed, to the last race ran as Honda in 2008. These are the liveries that adorned the cars from Brackley…

1999 – Dual Livery Sparks Controversy

Even before a BAR had been driven in anger, the team were called up before the World Motor Sport Council to explain their actions. The reason for such an occasion centred around the team’s livery presented to the media at the car’s launch. Due to BAT wanting to promote two cigarette brands, one car was coloured red and white, the other blue and yellow.

Unfortunately for BAR, this went against the rules which state both cars must be liveried very similar or identical. The way around this for BAR was to create the zip-livery, whereby one side of the BAR 01 was painted in the colours of Lucky Strike, and the other was painted in the colours of 555 (a zip was placed along the centre to separate the two designs). Needless to say, it was atrocious.

2000 – A More Subdued Livery

BAR dropped the dual livery in 2000 in favour of a more traditional look, opting to promote the Lucky Strike brand. BAT’s 555 brand is more favourable in Asian countries, and as Formula One raced more in Europe at the time, it seemed like the sensible option. Thus, the BAR 02 took on a predominantly white look, with the red circle of Lucky Strike in the sidepod.

The silver flourishes from the BAR 01 were carried over to the second car, this time on the air intake and the lower part of the engine cover. The livery was, in my opinion, a huge improvement over its predecessor. 2000 was also the first time Honda became involved with the team, initially as an engine supplier.

2001 – Setting The Livery Standard

In 2001, BAR set a standard for their future liveries to work by, removing the silver and adding in the khaki and black also featured within the Lucky Strike brand. The car remained largely white and following Jordan’s lead, the team would often change the words of their tobacco sponsor for races that didn’t allow cigarette advertising. “Look Alike” became a popular phrase, used to replace “Luck Strike”.

2002 – Continuing The Theme

The BAR 04 saw little change in the livery. The basic design remained the same and the only differences of note are the orange mirrors courtesy of sponsorship requirements and the slight alteration to the Lucky Strike red circle. Instead of the circle being solid as it was before, the company introduced white bars across one half of it. I’m not sure if this was a company-wide change or just done for the Formula One team. You can just about see the difference in the second photograph.

2003 – Adjusting The Standard

In 2003, the team made a few more changes to the livery, but it largely had the same feel to it from before. More black was introduced on the front wing, and the engine cover took on the red and khaki from the Lucky Strike brand. Honda started to adorn the rear wing with their logo and while “Look Alike” remained, “Lookies” also started to appear on the nose section (“Lookies” being a parody of “Luckies”). During the winter off-season, the team also ran an all-black interim livery on the test car.

2004 – Bar Code Additions

A bar code, or BAR code, was added to the 2004 livery, along with more black on the engine cover, dividing the part into three colours now, with the red and khaki. The bar code featured on the sidepods and included the year, the driver’s initials and the words “BAR CODE”. The rear wing also started to have the words “Don’t Walk” emblazoned on the back of it. The “Look Alike” phrase had been replaced with “Look Left” on the right sidepod cover, and “Look Right” on the left.

During winter testing, BAR ran a black livery.

In Spain, the team ran a livery which included more black on the side.

In Italy, the team ran a livery depicting the driver outlined on the side of the monocoque.

In China, the team promoted BAT’s 555 brand, changing the cars to blue and yellow.

2005 – The Final BAR

The khaki was replaced with black on the BAR 06, and the bar code on the sidepod was made a little smaller, perhaps mainly because of the curved nature of the part on the car. The mirrors changed to black and the rear wing continued to tell following drivers not to walk.

2006 – Honda Take Over

The first Honda, named the RA106, continued BAR’s livery design as the team were still sponsored by BAT and the Lucky Strike brand. The red circle logo received some overdue attention though and was spiced up for the 2006 season. Khaki made a return on the engine cover, the part now displaying four colours. At races that didn’t allow tobacco advertising, the team copied McLaren and used the driver’s forenames on the cars, Rubens and Jenson. “Racing Revolution” became a new catchphrase on the car, circling the Lucky Strike logo and featuring in much of the team’s branded paraphernalia.

The team ran a special livery at the Istanbul Grand Prix, dedicated to their sponsorship with Petrol Ofisi.

In China, the team promoted BAT’s 555 brand, changing the cars to blue and yellow.

2007 – The Earth Car

A lot of fuss was made of the 2007 livery, set to cover the Honda RA107. Much speculation spread around the motor sport fraternity and when it was finally unveiled at the Natural History Museum in London, people were divided the world over. The reason for the interest was down to the team no longer being sponsored by BAT – thus, the design was about to change.

I think most didn’t like it, but the scheme did have its fans. Using a graphic of the world, very similar to Google Earth’s (but not actually Google’s), the car was pretty much sponsor-free. Instead, the team promoted green causes and even got people to sign up to make a pledge towards reducing their carbon footprint in exchange for getting your name printed on the chassis. The names were very small, but “Oliver White – BlogF1″ is on that car somewhere. The team also ran an all-black testing livery over the winter.

2008 – Earth Evolved

With a general mockery made of the Earth car and its flawed green appeal, the design was toned down for 2008. Gone was the all-covering earth design and the RA108 reverted to a much more white livery. The Earth graphic was still included, but substantially less in your face. The RA108 also featured flourishes of red once again, a homage to the teams Japanese roots. Stripes were incorporated (along with other teams as well – it must have been the year of the stripe?) and the car’s design was a lot more edgier.

Unfortunately, the team were less than successful and after the season climax, it was announced the squad were to withdraw from the sport. The hunt is on for a buyer, but failing to find one will mean the team being disbanded. Ladies and gentlemen, the last Honda. For now, anyway.

In the previous livery posts, there were comments made about teams not really needing to spend a great deal on their graphic designers who come up with the liveries. Perhaps these were due to Toyota never really making any substantial changes to their liveries and Renault changing, but for the worse each and every time. However, BAR spent a fair amount of time on their liveries, designing more than their fair share of one-offs over the years. If any team deserves an award to trying, perhaps BAR should stand up and collect it.

Images © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

BAR’s & Honda’s Livery Development: 1999 – 2008

The rumoured Honda deal would have seen the squad receive a share of a £2.3 billion bail-out loan for the motor industry. The team have qualified for such a share by meeting four criteria; turnover in excess of £25 million, being innovative, reducing carbon emissions and of course, creating jobs.

Initially, Honda remained silent on the speculation but later confirmed that while they have spoken with BERR, the discussions were not centred on any possible loans from the government. Instead, the talks were apparently about the progress being made with finding a new buyer and how this affects the 700 staff employed by Honda’s Formula One operation and associated departments.

We have met with BERR on several occasions, to discuss how things are progressing, plus the prospects for the team and their 700 employees.

However, we have not met with them to discuss a bail-out and no discussions have taken place about a government financial bail-out. Honda Spokesperson.

The majority of commenters on F1Fanatic are very much opposed to any bail-out for Honda, the general reaction being one of the taxpayer being forced to see their money poured into the never-ending pit of a very expensive sports team. Although most people want to see the team on the grid in Australia, most people object to paying for it.

I don’t think ex-Honda Racing should be allowed the money either, and I would like to know if they could comply since they aren’t a car maker in the traditional sense, that is making cars to sell for money…

If the government do start supporting them financially, are they going to be helping the other British teams too? DG on F1Fanatic.

Over at Sidepodcast, a similar feeling was voiced…

Sorry but with the needs coming from health care, schools, police, military, and other basic services; Why should the people of Great Britain have to pay because Bernie and Honda had a crappy business model? Dan Brunell on Sidepodcast.

However, with 700 jobs at stake the team is no small, uninspiring business, especially when those employees are highly skilled and for the best part, dedicated. After all, we are being led to believe the RA109 is still being prepared at the factory in case a buyer is found in time.

Perhaps throwing money at the problem is the wrong approach and the beleaguered squad certainly need something more sustainable for the next few years. But with time almost up, is there any other option for those who say they want Honda to continue (albeit with a new owner), but don’t want to have to pay for it?

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Should Troubled Teams Receive Government Help?

Mercedes motorsport chief, Norbert Haug, has said that his employers could supply engines to the team, although it remains to be seen iof they can be saved in time for the opening round of the 2009 championship. With only 71 days until the paddock descends on Albert Park in Melbourne, time is quickly ticking away.

If there is a feasible solution with an investor for that team, we would be prepared to discuss it. But the financial background needs to be there. Norbert Haug.

Haug obviously has concerns about signing a contract with the team only to have them disappear mid-season due to lack of funds. This would leave Mercedes high and dry, and with the current economic climate the way it is, the automobile industry is being very careful about what it spends its money on.

You cannot give any presents at this time and in this [financial] climate, but we would like to help for the sake of Formula One. Ross Brawn and Nick Fry and their guys have done a good job so far, so if we could be in a position to help we certainly could try to do so. But the financial feasibility is very important. It needs to be 100 per cent bulletproof. Norbert Haug.

Haug was insistent to point out that any extra workload caused by a deal with Honda would not infringe on the current pace of development, although the German was also keen to say that the engine department are working flat out, and that even the change from V10 to V8 wasn’t as labour intensive. Engines in 2009 will have to last 3 races, the revs have been reduced and the plant ideally needs to incorporate KERS technology.

We have lots to do with KERS and the new rev limit and so on, which is a really big task. You have to do longer runs with the engines to prove they are ready. The guys in Brixworth are working flat out like never before. Even when we changed to V8 there was not as much to do as there is now. Norbert Haug.

Hopefully Honda can do a deal with Mercedes, but it would have to be signed and sealed very soon. Ross Brawn has stated that it would take about six weeks to modify the RA109 to accommodate a new engine, and with the cars being shipped out to Australia in mid-March, this leaves the team until the end of January to sort contracts out.

The race for Honda right now is perhaps more frantic than any grand prix they have taken part in.

Original article by BlogF1.

If Saved, Honda Could Get Mercedes-Benz Power

Scuderia Toro Rosso

STR had an incredible 2008 with both drivers scoring points and a maiden victory for Sebastian Vettel and the Red Bull family of teams. However, the young German has been promoted to the senior team, and Franz Tost is still yet to decide on a partner for the replacing Sebastien Buemi.

To be able to beat Red Bull Racing again will be a real challenge, and one I do not think they will achieve. Part of Scuderia Toro Rossos success last year was down to the luck of the draw, and while nothing can be taken away from the fine victory in Monza, the weather almost certainly helped Vettel claim pole and win. And it was those ten points that helped push STR above Red Bull in the final standings.

The team have signed a driver who they consider to be a real talent, although Sebastien Buemi only managed sixth in last years GP2 championship, having been beaten by other upcoming talents Lucas di Grassis, Bruno Senna and Romain Grosjean. Buemi is however, a part of Red Bull’s junior driver programme and earned his place in the squad by putting in some sterling work during the post-season tests at Jerez and Barcelona. He will likely find things tough to begin with, especially as he will undoubtedly be compared to his predecessor Vettel. But hopefully Buemi can find his feet and should be able to score a few points here and there.

The second seat remains vacant at the time of writing this, and the team desire a driver who can bring funds with them. STR also want someone with experience to partner Buemi, and currently Takuma Sato and Sebastien Bourdais look favourite for the role. However, time is ticking on and the Australian Grand Prix is only 75 days away. Scuderia Toro Rosso had better make their minds up quickly.

On the car side of things, the team will likely pick up a few Red Bull Racing chassis, just as they did in 2008. However, unlike 2008, the team will need a car that complies with the technical regulations from the word go, as the current STR3 is essentially illegal now. This pressure on Red Bull Technology is not good, and last season the company didn’t start providing a new car to STR until the Monaco event in May. There has been no sign of an interim car from the Red Bull stable, implying that the company will have build twice as many chassis before the vehicles are shipped out to Melbourne.

Red Bull Racing

Speaking of Red Bull Racing, how embarrassing was their 2008 campaign!? Having been beaten by the junior team must be heartbreaking for the squad, but it did prove that the car was capable during adverse conditions. The ‘08 season was also a marked improvement over the previous year, with the gearbox lasting a little longer.

The team have decided to let David Coulthard retire and in his place comes the young Sebastian Vettel, already a race winner. Vettel should prove to be a real match for team mate Mark Webber, who last year had it fairly easy thanks to Coulthard’s bad luck, error of judgements and fragile car. I can see Sebastian outscoring Webber by the end of the season, which would not be helpful to the Australian. Also, Mark Webber is recovering from a broken leg following a cycling accident in Tasmania.

The lack of testing from Mark Webber shouldn’t hurt the team too much as they have Sebastian Vettel and Sebastien Buemi, who has driven the RB4 since the 2008 season closed. However, the lack of driving will hurt Webber, especially as the cars will handle differently this year.

I would love to say that Red Bull will improve and start chasing the front runner’s gearboxes, but I just cannot see it. The team started out so well, attracting big names like Adrian Newey, Ferrari and Renault. But recently the relentless push forward seems to have slowed. Perhaps the injection of youth from Vettel and the lack of distraction with a cut down in lavish parties will help focus Red Bull back on to the racing.

Williams

They celebrated last year, but it was only the numbers derived from the teams impressive history that were of any significance. On the track, the team did less well and as much as I hope every season that this will be the comeback year, I am finding myself continually disappointed. Williams managed a couple of podiums last year with some great drives by Nico Rosberg, and surprisingly, Kazuki Nakajima didn’t do too badly either, almost matching Rosberg for pace on more than one occasion.

However, being Formula One’s final true privately entered team must be taking its toll, and while that status is something Franck Williams and Patrick Head can be proud of, the bank balance is probably wishing for some manufacturer-sent funds. With the world economy falling off the cliff, many expected Williams to follow Honda and walk away. Fortunately for us, Frank Williams is too resiliant and the team have been toiling away trying to reclaim the glory that once made them great.

The squad were the first to show off a 2009-spec. car, allowing Jonathan Kennard the chance to blast up and down a runway in the interim FW31. The team’s KERS package is the only system to have been developed entirely in-house, although it should be noted that in order for Williams to achieve this feat that had to purchase shares in AHP, get them to move their headquarters to Williams’s at Grove in Oxfordshire, and since then AHP has been renamed WHPForce India
Force India are another team that are going to be hard to judge until the lights go out in Melbourne. Last season, while transitioning from Spyker, the Silverstone-based squad continually locked-out the back row, only on occasion venturing forward. To their credit though, Giancarlo Fisichella did manage a Q2 qualifying effort, once, and in adverse conditions they did look handy for a while. Unfortunately though, while Vijay Mallya has the funds, he doesn’t yet have the experience of Formula One. With a more hands-on approach this year though, that could very quickly change.

Passion though is running through the team once again. This is something that has been lacking since the day Eddie Jordan submitted an advert to the back pages of Autosport asking for buyers for his team*. Passion doesn’t necessarily bring results though, but a canny knack of doing business helps.
*Not strictly true.

The team have affiliated themselves with McLaren and by getting a complete package of engine, gear box and KERS, the car should work more smoothly. The technical support will benefit the team greatly and providing the chassis isn’t too bad, Force India could make some progress in 2009. They won’t be hunting down podiums, but an odd point here and there could be on the cards.

The only thing that really worries me about Force India’s progress are the drivers. Adrian Sutil can drive well, but he seems to have adopted the Jarno Trulli approach to races; he tends to fall asleep. At times, Sutil looks impressive. Other times, you wonder what he’s doing. Fisichella as well is perhaps fast approaching his retirement. The Italian’s experience will undoubtedly help the team, especially as they once again transition from one engine to another. And also, from one type of car to another. Unfortunately, Fisichella’s race pace is starting to look a little tired and I think come 2010, Force India need in place a clear direction for the future of their driver choices.

Given everything though, I still think Force India will be at the back for the majority of the season. Although, perhaps moving away from Ferrari engines will help Sutil in the pitlane; maybe the Ferraris of Massa and Raikkonen won’t be drawn so much to him!?

Honda

The team is currently in flux, so there is very little to be said in all honesty. Ross Brawn has continually stated that the employees at Brackley are still preparing the RA109, although not knowing if it is worth anything must be disconcerting for the team. The lack of an engine deal is also very worrying. Brawn has mentioned that it would take about six weeks to modify the car to fit an unfamiliar engine, which gives the squad until the end of the month to find a buyer and an engine partner.

If the team are saved and they manage to acquire a power plant, I would presume Jenson Button to be one of the drivers, although the second seat remains unknown. For someone completely knew it would be easy to extend Rubens Barrichello’s career by an extra year as they would want some kind of stability. However, if someone took over and wanted immediate change, Barrichello could very quickly find himself left in the wings.

Prior to Honda shelving the Formula One operation, the team had been hyping themselves up, suggesting the RA109 will be a very competitive car. This attitude reminds of the team when they were known as BAR, and each and every year the hype would begin in November, and come March, it would evaporate as the cars came home in paltry positions. Only once was the excitement warranted – 2004. Therefore, I am ignoring the words flowing from Button’s mouth about the car. If they are on the Melbourne grid, they will likely be close to the back due to complete lack of testing, unfamiliar engine and possibly no KERS. I can see reliability causing a problem, which will only be exacerbated as the team will not be allowed to test during the season.

Finale

So that wraps up the 2009 season predictions. To be honest, it is fairly standard as I don’t think too much will change from last year. Ferrari can only lose it, Renault, BMW and Toyota can only move forward and if they don’t, serious questions will be asked. Red Bull and Scuderia Toro Rosso will achieve natural order again, Williams will continue to break fan’s hearts and Force India will occasionally nibble the bottom points. If Honda make it, then a big hurray will sound.

I’m most likely going to be wrong on most of what I have said – my predictions are like that! But these two posts have allowed me to examine some areas of the teams a little closer and compare as best I can between them all. So that just leaves me to ask…

…do you agree?

Further Reading

2009 Championship Predictions: Part I

Original article by BlogF1.

2009 Championship Predictions: Part II

Ferrari currently supply Scuderia Toro Rosso with engine units and had up until the final race of last year, also supplied Force India. With Vijay Mallya choosing to end his agreement with Ferrari in favour of Mercedes-Benz, it had been hoped that Honda could pick up the supply. Alas, it would seem that supplying one other team is enough for the Scuderia.

I can tell you about the chances of giving Honda engines… the likelihood is close to zero. Stefano Domenicali.

Honda are still preparing the 2009 challenger while in the background, team chiefs are busy working away on finding a purchaser. According to Nick Fry, there are 12 potential parties interested, and the rumour is that Fry and Brawn could be interested themselves. However, Brawn has stated that it would take about six weeks to modify the RA109 to accommodate a new engine unfamiliar with the team, which gives the squad until about the end of January, bearing in the mind the cars have to shipped over to Australia quite early.

The team could lean on Renault, but the French manufacturer already supplies Red Bull Racing. Mercedes have a deal with Force India, but have suggested in the past that they could accommodate another team. Cosworth have recently entered the mix with Max Mosley’s standard engine idea, but it is highly unlikely they would be able to produce a power unit in time. Elsewhere on the grid, Toyota have the facilities, but already supply Williams which just leaves BMW.

Max Mosley wants the big manufacturers to supply other teams with cheap engines, and the pressure may now be applied to the Munich-based manufacturer to provide Honda with some units. But of course, this is all assuming the team can be saved. So far though, it seems the obstacles just keep on coming.

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Ferrari Rule Out Engine Supply To Honda

Honda are said to still have a dozen interested parties though, so all is not yet lost yet for the 700 odd employees in Oxfordshire and around the world. However, Richards doesn’t want the burden right now, despite welcoming the recent agreement to significantly cut costs in running a Formula One team. Although a step in the right direction, the one-time Benetton Formula One team chief feels it isn’t enough to ensure he can hit the ground running.

The cost-cutting process that has been put in place has not yet seen its full benefit, and I don’t think it will be until 2010 that you will see those issues roll out properly. The teams have still got a burden of overhead that is unsustainable. So consequently, with the window of time for entry, I just question whether it is right at the moment. Dave Richards.

If Formula One does not reconnect itself with its fan base and with the man in the street, and bring itself down to earth, I fear for its future. I know some people at the top end of the sport are addressing that and are well aware of that…It is a bitter medicine that is required at the moment but it has to be done. Dave Richards.

Honda Chief Executive Nick Fry was keen to point out that the team may still find a buyer, stating that about 30 parties showed initial interest, to which he and the other powers within the company have whittled down to a dozen or so.

It’s looking very positive at the moment. We had, as you might expect, a huge amount of interest at the start, probably well in excess of 30 groups came to us. We have now narrowed that down to something in the region of a dozen, and we’re currently talking to Honda about what is the best bet for the future. Nick Fry.

We do yet know who the interested parties are, although once-rumoured Carlos Slim – a wealthy Mexican businessman – ruled himself out stating his involvement was mere speculation. If an agreement cannot be reached with a potential purchaser by the end of January, Honda have said they will pull plug, thus limiting the 2009 grid to just nine teams.

It once looked reasonably okay for Honda, and I for one was pleased to see Dave Richards looking at making a comeback to the sport. However, to hear that someone with Richards’s experience in running motor sport teams has decided to put himself out of the running, it doesn’t paint a rosy picture for the Brackley squad’s future. It may well be very good having the bank balance to finance a Formula One venture, but without the right skills a team can very quickly disappear off the back of the grid.

Original article by BlogF1.

Richards Rules Out Formula One Return

Ross Brawn and Nick Fry have stated that little has changed since before Christmas and will now continue discussions with the apparent four interested parties to see who can and cannot afford to run the team into the future. Speaking to British newspaper The Telegraph, Brawn said that the Slim rumour was just that, pure speculation.

We would love it if it were true, but it’s pure speculation from various members of the media. It’s just been one of those rumours which has developed a life of its own.

There has been a huge amount of interest. It’s now got to the stage where we need to filter out the serious from the not so serious. We’re all hopeful that something will happen and we’re anxious to turn up the wick again in the new year. Ross Brawn.

Meanwhile, Nick Fry insisted that preparations for the first race of the year were still going ahead as planned, although it is unlikely the squad will attend the upcoming tests, something which will undoubtedly hurt the team should they be saved.

While it would be inappropriate to comment on any one potential purchaser of the team, Ross and I are very pleased with the level and calibre of interest in our team and we hope that we can bring this to a conclusion by the end of January. In the meantime, preparations for Melbourne continue. Nick Fry.

Perhaps the strongest of the names that have been so far associated with the Brackley squad is former Honda team principal Dave Richards. Richards tried to enter Formula One two years ago after winning the then-twelfth grid slot, beating other names like Eddie Irvine, Jean Alesi and Paul Stoddart. However, with a change due in the rules regarding customer chassis, Richards pulled the plug and ended talks with McLaren that would have likely seen the Woking team support Richards’s Prodrive operation. McLaren will now support Force India with Mercedes supplying engines.

There is also talk of a Middle Eastern consortium looking at buying the team, but they had a rather disappointing reception with Honda previously when Super Aguri was put up for sale earlier in the season. While perhaps the circumstances were different then, it is my belief from what has been rumoured so far that Richards appears to be in the best position, especially now that Subaru have withdrawn from the World Rally Championship. This frees up resources at Prodrive who will be looking to fill the gap.

Original article by BlogF1.

Slim Denies Inking Honda Buyout Deal

Richards is a charmer in front of the camera, and always speaks well when pressed for questions. His record isn’t too shabby either, having led BAR to second place in the 2004 championship. His Prodrive company does well, and until last week they ran Subaru’s entry in the World Rally Championship, winning multiple titles since 1990. And while the twelfth-team plan didn’t work out, Richards is still interested in Formula One. He still has that itch.

Richards flew out to the Middle East this weekend to speak with his investors who own shares in his Prodrive company. While speaking to the Mail On Sunday, Richards admitted that a group of people have been speaking to him about Formula One for over a year, and Honda’s withdrawal could be just the thing to replace Subaru at Prodrive.

There are a group of people in the Middle East who want to support a Formula One entry for me and have been very specific about it for a year now.

When you sit down in the cold light of day and realise the liability you would be taking on, and the huge restructuring of staff and resources that will be needed, investors will have to think long and hard before taking a punt.

You will have to bridge a big gap in finance, probably for three years, before balancing the accounts. Dave Richards.

However, with the global economy looking fragile at the moment, bridging the gap isn’t peanuts. The money needed to run Honda is, like many other teams, astronomical. The timing though could be good for Richards, who has always said that he would love to do Formula One, but only if it made sense financially. And while it doesn’t look to rosy at the moment, Max Mosley and FOTA are insistent on reducing costs and bringing the entry barrier down.

With Honda’s Brackley facilities, Richards will not have to worry about the customer car issue, as he can build his own. The factory that was planned for the previous Prodrive entry can also be left in the bin. Richards knows the place, the infrastructure and of course, Jenson Button. And if he can keep Ross Brawn, then this could be a very good thing not just for Prodrive, but also for Formula One.

It all hinges on whether or not Richards can secure financial backing, but with a proven track record, a strong sense of business and passion, I for one really hope Prodrive can land on the Australian grid. Although a different name wouldn’t go amiss; I can’t go changing Prodrivel* now.

*Prodrivel is the personal site of Ollie White (that’s me). He registered the domain in anticipation of Prodrive making it to Formula One, but after the team failed, he made Prodrivel into his personal playground.

Original article by BlogF1.

What Goes Around Comes Around: Richards Is Looking At F1 Again

I came to show my face here in England, to show I appreciate everything that happens to the team, and to tell them to keep working hard and putting every effort in possible. Rubens Barrichello.

Barrichello returned to England today though, and visited the beleaguered team in Oxfordshire. Rubens spoke with Ross Brawn and it is believed he is fighting for his position – Barrichello wants to continue competing in Formula One. This is despite leaving the world wondering why he has not been seen visiting the factory before, prompting rumours that Honda had already ended his contract, leaving Barrichello with no further obligations towards the organisation.

I told Ross, right now I am into the situation where I am not old and I can still use this as a learning emotion. I am so fired up.

I told him again that it could be a good time for me to say goodbye and start shouting bad against people for what they have done bad to me, but no. I am ready to race. I have lost half the weight of what I need to lose, and am eager to keep going.

I don’t think it is coincidence that I won the two kart races back in Brazil. Of course, it is at a level of competition that is much lower than F1, but it shows that I am up to it. I think I can use my mentality, plus my speed and my focus on the right stuff right now to really help the team carry on.

And I don’t want to sign just for one year. I want to sign for two or three years. I also started my career on slicks and I definitely want to finish my career on slicks. Rubens Barrichello.

Barrichello clearly had a lot to say, and it is now unquestionable that the Brazilian race winner was in contact with the team during the past two weeks. However, while Rubens states he isn’t old – and to be fair, he isn’t – when compared to many of the younger drivers coming into the sport, Barrichello is certainly of the more experienced on the grid. Rubens this year broke the record for the number of races competed, and even managed a podium at the saturated British Grand Prix. But for him to get a two or three year contract looks to be very unlikely. Already 36, I don’t think many teams would want to hire a driver who is nearing his forties.

Also, it should be noted that Rubens has indeed shouted bad since the end of the season, taking an opportune moment to speak about his time at Ferrari and the pressures he was put under to ensure then-team mate Michael Schumacher won.

It seems a little strange that Rubens would wait until now before speaking about his future prospects, just at a time when nearly everybody presumed he had quietly retired. Perhaps Barrichello is just making his case heard for any future company that buys the squad from the Japanese manufacturer, or maybe this is just one final attempt at extending his already long career.

When I heard DC [David Coulthard] telling me he was going to stop – he was feeling he had done enough, he wanted to go home. I just cannot see myself going back to Brazil yet – because I still have the speed. Yes, I can see when I am done going back to my country, which I have always loved. But I still want to race.

I haven’t driven the car for a while and I went to the simulator today and spent two hours there – before they told me to stop because I had to do something else. Rubens Barrichello.

Which just leaves me with one question… If Honda were to be saved, would the new owners want to retain the former race winner? Is Rubens Barrichello that appealing?

Original article by BlogF1.

Rubens Barrichello Speaks – He Wants To Keep His Job

It is understood that Bernie Ecclestone requires there to be ten teams and twenty drivers in each grand prix – this is apparently the minimum requirement set in place by presumably the man himself. However, should Honda fail to find a buyer before March 2009, the grid could see only nine teams, thus breaking Bernie’s golden rule.

In this case, it has been rumoured that some teams may be required to field three cars, and in this particular case, two teams would have to run an extra driver to make up the loss of the two drivers from Honda. How it is decided who gets to run a third car is unknown to me, and their status in the driver’s championship and their contribution to the constructor’s championship are also unknown to me and many others. However, it is likely the teams with the most comfortable financial position and with the appropriate levels of staff would have to prepare and race a third chassis. So Ferrari and McLaren, then. Possibly Red Bull if Dietrich Mateschitz was feeling generous.

The loss of a Japanese team could also be disastrous for the Japanese Grand Prix. Although Honda have only been competing again since 2006 (they competed in the 1960’s previously), they have become synonymous with Formula One through their success as an engine supplier to McLaren and Williams during many spectacular campaigns. Japan has a strong fanbase, but they also have/had two teams (Toyota being the second) and for a little while in 2008, Japan also fielded two drivers; Takuma Sato in the junior Honda, Super Aguri, and Kazuki Nakajima for the Williams-Toyota team.

Takuma Sato is oddly enough on the verge of a third comeback (this time potentially with Scuderia Toro Rosso), and Kazuki Nakajima has already signed another year onto his Williams contract. But losing Honda will be a bitter pill for the fans to swallow. The team is much loved despite their less-than-spectacular results, and Jenson Button is adored the world over as the handsome British gentleman that I’m sure he is. Although Honda are based in Britain and have employed two British drivers in their history – Anthony Davidson as a long term test driver and Super Aguri pilot – the Japanese fans seem to love this aspect of the team culture. Losing Honda may lose the faith of a lot of fans.

What about Honda’s chief rival, Toyota? Earlier in the year the team was almost given its marching orders, the automotive giant instead deciding to offer an ultimatum of sorts; buck up and get results, or the plug is pulled. Thankfully for the Cologne-based team, Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock did quite well with the TF108 and improved their position in the standings from 2007. However, Honda left American racing when they could no longer race against Toyota – the rivalry and competition is just as important to the overall brand image than the actual participation. Without Honda, will Toyota decide it is time to start saving a few coins?

And lastly, there are serious repercussions on those people who are possibly, if not already, facing redundancy. Three weeks prior to Christmas for many of the team’s employees and their families, and instead of kicking back with a beer, they are mailing out CVs to other Formula One teams. Possibly upheaving their entire lives just to remain a part of what should be a glorious celebration of skill, bravery, craftsmanship and honour. For those at Brackley I feel.

I said in the comments on the previous post that Bernie Ecclestone should be kicking himself right now, and I stand by those words. For too long the sport has relied on manufacturers to make up the numbers, provide some vitality to the sport and keep the money rolling. But of course, the narrow-mindedness of those who are apparently in control have allowed the sport to potentially initiate a self-destruct sequence.

When I first mentioned those two words, self destruct, back in April, some thought I was being too pessimistic. And although the situation was different (it related to customer chassis), the over-riding feeling was that of the governance of the sport not being shrewd enough to look beyond the end of their nose, let alone a few months into the future.

I sincerely hope Honda can find a way out of this. I sincerely hope this is not the beginning of a snowball. But I feel it should be repeated…

…Formula One’s self destruct sequence has may have been initiated.

Image Copyright © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

The Possible Repercussions Of Honda’s Total Withdrawal From Formula One

According to Grandprix.com, many Formula One teams have seen a flow of applications throughout the course of the day, and it seems that the pattern emerging is that of Honda – the staff submitting CVs are apparently Honda employees.

The team held an important meeting earlier today which has been widely reported in the media. It was believed that the centre of discussion was measures to reduce costs in the Honda company, particularly costs involving less-essential parts of the automotive giant. It was also rumoured that redundancies may also have been discussed. And whether you like it or not, Formula One is considered an extra to a car company’s portfolio. In many circumstances, Formula One can be considered an unnecessary expenditure.

However, it wouldn’t be a total surprise if Honda decided it was to shed itself of the burden of a relatively unsuccessful Formula One venture. The company is suffering like many others in the downward turn of the global economy. Grandprix.com are suggesting that Honda would like to sell before Christmas, which seems highly unlikely given the current financial climate.

So this begs some questions…

…Would you miss the Honda team if the rumour proved accurate and they didn’t turn up in Australia next year? What would happen to Jenson Button? Would he go the same way as Anthony Davidson and struggle to find a new employer? Or do you think this has all been taken out of context and Honda are not yet about to sell up and walk away from the sport?

Image Copyright © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Is HondaF1 About To Be Put Up For Sale?

Rubens Barrichello has enjoyed a long career in Formula One (the longest, in fact), and he was once hailed as the second Ayrten Senna in the making. Unfortunately for Barrichello, luck hasn’t always been on his side, but great drives in the under-funded Jordan and Stewart teams allowed his ability to shine. A promotion to Ferrari came in 2000, but Michael Schumacher was unbeatable during the team’s dominant era. Ever the team player though, Barrichello stood by and watched his team mate win five successive driver’s titles before finally switching teams at the end of Schumacher’s run.

Finding a new home at Honda wasn’t the best of moves, but at the time Rubens found few other options available. With the announcement of former Ferrari Technical Director Ross Brawn to the team chief role at Honda, many thought the fortunes of the Brackley-based squad would see an improvement. However, while many are hopeful the performance of the team will improve, they certainly didn’t during the 2008 campaign.

In Rubens’s first year at Honda, he was outscored by his team mate Jenson Button, but the car was reasonably competitive when everything came good and Barrichello managed a consistent season, finishing on 30 points. 2007 was a let down though for all those involved, and although it was the Brazilian’s first ever point-less campaign, Button’s wasn’t much better with a pitiful 6 points. For 2008, the performance slumped again although Barrichello managed to outscore Button for the first time since their pairing. A fine podium at Silverstone boosted Barrichello’s haul to 11 points, considerably more than Button’s 3.

Honda are due to test two young GP2 drivers later this month (Senna and Di Grassi), and many Formula One insiders are saying that the writing is on the wall for Rubens. It’s also worth mentioning that the team’s CEO Nick Fry has stated that he will “bring some fresh blood into Formula One” next year, strongly hinting that Barrichello will be replaced.

Do you think Nick Fry is right to bring in a younger driver for 2009, or do you think Barrichello still has some fight in him? Would Honda be taking an unnecessary risk by retiring Barrichello’s wealth of experience, or would they do good by letting a younger and perhaps more hungry driver into the cockpit?

Original article by BlogF1.

Should Rubens Barrichello Retire From Formula One?

Di Grassi finished just one point behind Senna in the 2008 GP2 championship, and he has been widely tipped for a successful future in Formula One. However, Senna has been attracting similar headlines as well, and Bruno only missed out on the title to Giorgio Pantano by 12 points. Lucas wasn’t meant to race in GP2 this year, but after securing a drive with Campos Grand Prix, Di Grassi excelled thanks partly to his testing of the 2008 car over the winter.

This is a very well-deserved opportunity for Lucas to prove his potential after such an impressive performance in GP2 this season and during his testing responsibilities with the ING Renault F1 Team. We look forward to seeing Lucas in action and will take a keen interest in how he performs. Ross Brawn.

I am very excited to have the opportunity of testing with the Honda Racing F1 Team in Barcelona and look forward to proving myself to the team.

The next two weeks will be a very important stage in my development and I will be spending a lot of time at the Honda Racing F1 Team’s factory before the test to speak with the engineers and learn as much as possible in advance of the test. Lucas Di Grassi.

With Honda testing two young hotshots who will undoubtedly find themselves in Formula One in the coming years, what does the immediate future look like for Rubens Barrichello. The former Ferrari-winner celebrated his 36th birthday this year, but outscoring his younger team mate Jenson Button showed the world that Barrichello still has the ability and motivation to race. However, Honda need to consider their future carefully, and with many teams getting young drivers on their books early, Rubens may have just raced in his final Brazilian Grand Prix.

Original article by BlogF1.

Lucas Di Grassi To Also Test For Honda

The season started off poorly with a disqualification in the first round for Rubens Barrichello, the most experienced driver on the grid falling foul of the pitlane closure rule during safety car periods. Having completed the resulting stop-go penalty for this infringement, Barrichello then ran a red light at the end of the pitlane, the Brazilian claiming he simply didn’t see the light.

Despite this though, the Hondas qualified well in Australia, certainly better than their testing pace indicated. Unfortunately though, the pace would gradually decline as the year progressed and what started out as a ~12th place grid slot regularity, it soon became ~16th by the season close. And the race pace didn’t get much better either.

The Spanish Grand Prix saw the team score their first points of the year with Jenson Button claiming sixth place for the squad. Unfortunately, Rubens Barrichello collided with Giancarlo Fisichella during the race and was forced to retire with a damaged car. However, the Brazilian would also score points not to long after Button, Monaco and Canada proving good races for the the former race winner.

Tricky conditions at Monaco allowed Barrichello to calmly drive his Honda into sixth place from fifteenth on the grid, and the Canadian Grand Prix showed the world that if it all came together, the car was capable of getting into the third phase of qualifying, Barrichello doing just that and starting the race in ninth. Rubens would go on to improve his position and finish the race in seventh.

The team’s high point of the year would come in Britain with Barrichello scoring a well-deserved podium as other drivers around him were falling off the road in atrocious conditions. A good strategy from the team and a mature drive from Rubens resulted in third place, standing alongside Lewis Hamilton and Nick Heidfeld on the podium. Race winner Hamilton lapped everybody up to Barrichello and the pace-levelling rain allowed Rubens to show he hadn’t lost his competitive edge.

The latter half of the season saw any competitive advantage with the Honda get overtaken by just about everybody else. Jenson Button’s retirement rate improved, the Briton managing to finish all remaining nine races. However, Barrichello’s luck ran out and the Brazilian racked up a further three non-finishes; a collision with David Coulthard in Germany, a failed gearbox in Belgium and electrical problems halted his race in Singapore.

Jenson Button managed a ninth place in Singapore, and Barrichello claimed eleventh in China. But aside from these peaks, the second half of 2008 was full of gloom as the cars only managed to stay ahead of the Force Indias.

However, the team openly admitted that they were working very hard towards 2009 and when former-Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn was brought onboard as team principal in the ‘07-’08 break, talk of using 2008 as a transition year was suggested. However, despite all this there appear to be very few definite good signs for the future, other than the team developing KERS from an early stage and focusing on the 2009 campaign before most others.

Ever since the stunning 2004 season when the squad were still racing under the BAR name, the performance of the team has declined. From second place in 2004, BAR/Honda slipped to 6th in 2005, improved to 4th in 2006, but then slipped again in 2007 to 8th (and scoring 80 points less than the year previous) before resting in 9th this year, although the team did score more than double the points they did in 2007, mostly thanks to Barrichello’s podium.

Jenson Button has re-signed to the team for 2009, although the jury is still out on Rubens Barrichello. The only real factor playing against the lead points scorer from this season is the man’s age – Barrichello celebrated his 36th birthday this year, although he managed to outscore his younger and still much-praised team mate 11 points to 3.

Honda will test and evaluate Bruno Senna later this month, the 2008 GP2 runner-up being the nephew of late Formula One world champion Ayrton Senna. The team also courted Fernando Alonso during the this year’s campaign, but it would seem the Spaniard is only really interested in Ferrari and his current home Renault.

Honda 2008 Championship Results	Jenson Button (Grid) Race	Rubens Barrichello (Grid) Race
Australian Grand Prix Albert Park	(13) RET	(11) DSQ
Malaysian Grand Prix Sepang	(11) 10	(14) 13
Bahrain Grand Prix Sakhir	(9) RET	(12) 11
Spanish Grand Prix Circuit de Catalunya	(13) 6	(11) RET
Turkish Grand Prix Istanbul Park	(13) 11	(12) 14
Monaco Grand Prix Monte Carlo	(12) 11	(15) 6
Canadian Grand Prix Circuit Gilles Villeneuve	(18) 11	(9) 7
French Grand Prix Magny Cours	(16) RET	(17) 14
British Grand Prix Silverstone	(17) RET	(16) 3
German Grand Prix Hockenheim	(?) 17	(?) RET
Hungarian Grand Prix Hungaroring	(12) 12	(17) 16
European Grand Prix Valencia	(16) 13	(19) 16
Belgian Grand Prix Spa Francorchamps	(17) 15	(16) RET
Italian Grand Prix Monza	(19) 15	(16) 17
Singapore Grand Prix Singapore	(12) 9	(18) RET
Japanese Grand Prix Fuji Speedway	(18) 14	(17) 13
Chinese Grand Prix Shanghai	(18) 16	(13) 11
Brazilian Grand Prix Interlagos	(17) 13	(15) 15
Driver’s Championship Position	(3pts) 18th	(11pts) 14th
Constructor’s Championship Position	(14pts) 9th

Recommended Reading

• F12008: Honda Preview
• Is Suzuki Upset With The Wrong Man?
• Rubens Barrichello’s 257 Livery
• Honda Develop Pitlane Lights
• Honda To Evaluate Bruno Senna

Image Copyright © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

F12008: Honda Endure A Season To Forget

The young Leafield-based team had been punching above its weight in 2007 and with continued support from Honda, it was hoped that the momentum could be carried forward into 2008. Alas, it wasn’t to be and the launch of the new car was postponed. The team then failed to attend the final test sessions of the off-season and it was announced that financial difficulties had meant the team didn’t have many spare parts.

Aguri Suzuki managed to get his team to Australia though and both Takuma Sato and Anthony Davidson were on the grid in Melbourne. The drivers had been told to take it easy though and to not take unnecessary risks – each damaged part cost the team money they simply didn’t have. Both drivers failed to finish in Australia, and behind the scenes Suzuki was desperately trying to put a deal together that would save the squad.

Unfortunately for Super Aguri, no matter what they tried, they simply couldn’t get agreement on an investment package, but still the drivers ploughed on, attending the flyaway races and continuing to keep out of trouble on the track. In Malaysia, Sato managed to finish ahead of Adrian Sutil’s Force India, but in Bahrain order was restored as the Aguri pair qualified and finished in the final two places.

By the time the fourth round of the championship came around things were looking very desperate at Leafield. Honda were pulling their support, the Magma deal had fallen through and it seemed every thing and one was against the plucky team from competing. Suzuki had hoped a new deal from the Weigl group might be his answer, but Honda refused, saying that they believed the company didn’t have the necessary funds to support the team.

The team raced in Barcelona, and although the writing was on the wall, the team did not know at the the time that this would be their final race. The result – Super Aguri’s last – was a DNF for Davidson, and a thirteenth (and last) for Sato.

The cars were sent to the Istanbul circuit for the following race, the Turkish Grand Prix, but upon arrival they were refused entry to the grounds because of what was about to happen back in the UK.

On May 6th 2008, Aguri Suzuki announced to the media the withdrawal of his team from the Formula One World Championship. Over the following days and weeks, the company went into administration and the equipment at Leafield was eventually auctioned off. People around the world felt for the team – their competitive spirit and plucky determination attracted many fans – but unfortunately the cheers from the crowds do little to the bank balances.

The 2008 season started with 11 teams and 22 drivers, but ended with only 10 teams and 20 drivers. Super Aguri amassed four points in their short 39-race history and touched the hearts of thousands. But Formula One is a formidable machine that doesn’t stop, and the plight of Aguri’s squad was soon forgotten about in the paddock.

Recommended Reading

• F12008 Super Aguri Preview
• Honda Not Keen On Bailing Out Super Aguri
• Super Aguri Deal Collapses
• Super Aguri Withdraw From Formula One

Original article by BlogF1.

F12008: Super Aguri Fade Into The Background

The young Brazilian driver has been linked to McLaren, Scuderia Toro Rosso and Force India, but Honda have stepped forward and said they will test Bruno in their RA108 later this month. The test will take place between November 17th and 19th, and the team were open about evaluating Senna for a 2009 drive.

We are delighted to provide Bruno with the opportunity to test for us later this month as we continue to explore all the driver options available to us for next season.

After an impressive year in GP2 this will be a chance for Bruno to prove that he is ready to make the step up to Formula One. Our objective is to have the best drivers available to us next season and our evaluation of Bruno’s performance will be rigorous.

We are looking forward to seeing how he performs. Over the next two weeks Bruno will be spending a lot of time with us at our Brackley base, working closely with our engineers and on the simulator to ensure he is fully prepared for this important test. Ross Brawn.

Interestingly, Senna finished in second place in the GP2 championship this year, beaten to the title by former-Formula One driver Giorgio Pantano by twelve points. But most of the interest seems lie with Bruno, who is often said to have a great F1 career ahead of him. Third-placed driver Lucas Di Grassi, who was only one point shy of Senna, has been linked to Renault for some time, having tested for them this year.

I am obviously very excited about being given my first Formula One test and to have that opportunity with Honda is a dream come true. Although I am still only in my fourth year of motor racing, I have wanted to test an F1 car for a very long time and I feel that I am ready for that challenge. Bruno Senna.

It seems Brawn is hesitant to let his experienced and proven winner Barrichello go, but the former-Ferrari strategist is aware that he needs to think about the long-term future of Honda rather than the short-term.

Original article by BlogF1.

Bruno Senna To Test For Honda

Honda tried the system for the first time during the Thursday pitstop practice at Fuji yesterday and have even mooted the idea of running them during Friday’s practices in China and Brazil. And speaking to Autosport, Ross Brawn stated that he believes it could be safer than having a team member stand near the car with a lollipop.

We can see a lot of safety benefits from the system. But like any system it has got to be very robust and you have got to be very confident in the technology you are using. It is quite a delicate situation.

At the moment we are really going through an assessment period. We wanted to do some trialling in the practice days at the race track to be in a good position to make a judgement over the winter about what we want to do. Ross Brawn.

The current issue surrounding pitstops is two-fold. Firstly, the danger of the car leaving while the fuel hose is still attached can add unnecessary danger to an already dangerous part of the race. In Singapore, Felipe Massa lept away from his pitstop too early and the hose was ripped from the refuelling rig, taking a team member down and briefly spraying fuel as it flew past. The second issue is being released into the fast lane in front of another driver. This aspect of the pitstop comes down to human judgement, but the consequences of getting wrong are potentially race-ending penalties.

The light system is designed to help with problem-one, the lights not changing until the hose is clear from the car. This is an automatic part of the process and in theory, shouldn’t fail in the way a human can. Of course, that doesn’t mean to say it won’t, but as Brawn says, you have to be confident in the technology you’re using.

We can see, despite the poor exposure the system has had recently, a lot of safety benefits of the system – because the interlocks you create can, in theory, make it impossible for the car to be released without all the actions being completed.

But someone has to make the call for whether there is a gap in the pitlane for the car to exit into, and we haven’t yet worked out a way to deal with that. We have thought about sensors in the pitlane that sense when other cars are there and things like that, but that is still a human judgement.

It would still be human judgement if you had a lollipop though. And, with a lollipop, the guy is also trying to make that judgement at the same time as watching all the other activities that are going on with the car. That is where it is more difficult for him. Ross Brawn.

Interestingly, Ferrari are reverting away from the auto-lights in Fuji in favour of the traditional and proven pitstop-lollipop. One thing that inspires confidence in Honda’s approach though is that they are quite clear with the fact they won’t rush into the new system, but instead want to extensively test it over the winter first.

Original article by BlogF1.

They Haven’t Worked For Ferrari, But That Hasn’t Stopped Honda Developing Pitstop Lights

The closing of Maranello’s doors also squeezes Alonso into a tighter corner with regards to his options for 2009 and 2010. Currently at Renault and struggling to even get into the points on a consistent basis, Alonso would want a decent car next year that can better challenge for podiums and wins. However, the double champion is still hopeful that his team can produce the goods and see a return to the good old days.

I haven’t seen much [of the 2009 car], because we are focused on the remaining races, but I’m sure it inspires confidence because at this point of the year every team is nearly completely sure that next year they will do well. They are all very optimistic and it’s up to you to believe them or not. Normally I believe [Renault], because they’ve given me a lot of joy and two cars to win titles with, so it’s easier to believe them than others. Fernando Alonso.

It is perhaps because of the history and the knowledge of the team that Fernando believes the Enstone-based squad is his best option for next year, despite rumoured to have received offers from BMW and Honda. The Swiss-German outfit have publicly stated that they hare happy to wait for Alonso’s decision before confirming their line up for next season, suggesting that they would rather have the Spaniard in their car rather than either Nick Heidfeld or Robert Kubica. And given his recent performances, I’d suggest it is Heidfeld who is under the most pressure.

Honda as well would welcome someone of Alonso’s calibre in the team, and partnered with the hopeful upturn in pace and the full force of Ross Brawn being realised, it could see the Japanese squad taking a large step forward. However, despite the team saying they are concentrating on the RA109, you cannot help but worry for their immediate future and results. Perhaps, given the potential clashes with the very-fast Kubica and the concern over Honda’s performance, Renault might just be the best place for Alonso for the next few years.

As I always say, Renault is my first option because I know the people and I know things can be done right here, even though this year things haven’t gone well. And if not, we’ll see what we can do. I’m 27 now and life changes a lot and if I race in Formula One for another eight or ten years I might get the chance again to end up there [at Ferrari]. Fernando Alonso.

Either way, it seems as though the young champion is not in any particular hurry to make a decision and will no doubt spend considerable time weighing up his options. Don’t hold your breath just yet!

Original article by BlogF1.

Fernando Alonso Still Believes In The Ferrari Dream

Fernando Alonso has not hidden his desire to race for the Maranello team, and recently said that if Ferrari wanted to hire him, they would. However, it seems that the Italian team is still happy with their current pairing and Kimi Raikkonen has had his contract extended by a year. Although the reigning world champion doesn’t necessarily have to see out his deal (I’m sure Kimi could buy himself out), the fact he has signed on for another year strongly suggests that he wants another title or two and has reaffirmed his faith in the Italian team.

Where this leaves Alonso is anyone’s guess. The Spaniard has made it known that while he has a great deal of respect for Renault, the car simply isn’t a winner. Alonso had been rumoured to be flirting with Honda, and the pairing of Fernando with Ross Brawn would be something special. But currently, Honda are seriously struggling to even stay ahead of Force India. Although the Brackley squad are concentrating on 2009, they don’t exactly look all that appealing at the moment.

Another rumour which surfaced after the Belgian Grand Prix last week was a possible move to BMW. The Swiss-German team must appeal more to Alonso, having won a race this year and looking a little like Renault when Alonso took his maiden victory back in 2003. However, Mario Theissen is loyal to his drivers and both Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica have given the old Sauber squad a lot of help and some good results. Heidfeld though is having a relatively poor season and Kubica has once again spoken out against the team.

Other than staying with Renault, Alonso’s options are thinning out. I would love to see Fernando drive for Williams, but I fear they cannot afford him and already-signed Nico Rosberg. Force India are likely to not be on Alonso’s radar, Red Bull are sewn up with Mark Webber and Sebastien Vettel, as are Toyota with Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock. Currently, Scuderia Toro Rosso, Williams, Renault, BMW or Honda are Alonso’s choices.

Original article by BlogF1.

Kimi Raikkonen Extends Ferrari Contract To 2010

Sato had entered Formula One with lots of promise, initially getting a drive with the now rebranded Jordan outfit back in 2002. Takuma quickly developed a reputation for throwing the car off the road, but a second chance with BAR Honda in 2004 emphasised the team’s faith in him. That and the marketing dream of running a Japanese driver in a predominantly Japanese team.

When Honda decided to sign experienced driver Rubens Barrichello for 2006 though, the fans were quick to criticise Honda and thus the B-Team was founded by popular ex-Formula One pilot Aguri Suzuki. In essence, the team came to being in order to help Sato and keep the peace with the passionate Asian fans.

In his time at Super Aguri, Sato did quite well with the under-performing car, 2007 being the team’s most competitive season in their short history. Takuma Sato scored all the team’s points that year, claiming one in Spain and three in Canada. The Tokyo-born driver has also enjoyed relative success with the much better funded BAR Honda team, earning 34 points in 2004. However, in comparison to his team mate that year, the points he accrued pale somewhat. Jenson Button scored 85 during the ‘04 campaign, including 10 visits to podium, 9 more than Sato.

On a good day, Sato can be a quick, competitive and tenacious racer. His move on then-reigning champion Fernando Alonso in Canada last year was not a stand-out pass, but in the circumstances it was bold and poignant. However, on other days Sato can be ragged, unpolished and look like a rookie. There have been unfounded suggestions that Sato’s driving style led to a lot of engine failures while he was at Honda and many people have questioned his ability over the years.

There have been rumours circulating around the paddocks at recent races that Sato maybe lining himself up to replace Nelson Piquet Jr. at Renault. The Brazilian rookie has endured a disastrous start to his career with the Enstone-based team, and Renault chiefs have been openly critical, although also supportive of their driver’s efforts. To be honest I feel there is little chance of Takuma getting a race seat this year; Renault aside the teams look fairly stable on the driver front.

However, Sato was in Monaco last weekend to let people know that he wasn’t ready to retire and has been trying to get his foot in some team doors. Stating that he doesn’t want to retire and that he’s received offers from outside of Formula One, Sato also admitted that he’s had no firm proposals from the current grid of squads.

I do not want to retire but at the moment I do not know in what way I will be coming back. Takuma Sato.

So, what do we think of Takuma Sato? Has he become Formula One’s latest reject, or can he bounce back from the sidelines?

Image © HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Does Takuma Sato Deserve Another Drive In Formula One?

And Barrichello has a nice glitzy splash-screen up on his website: Rubens Barrichello’s Official Site. Although, when I say ‘nice’ I’m just being polite. It’s a bit bling…

Images courtesy of HondaF1 and Rubens Barrichello.

Original article by BlogF1.

Rubens Barrichello’s 257 Livery

We can’t afford to lose teams and I think they [Super Aguri] showed a lot of character, a lot of effort in the last couple of years but circumstances prevailed and they were not able to carry on. It was a shame they could not find the funding to continue.

What I saw was Nick [Fry] making big efforts at time to keep the project alive, beyond any reason for us, it was because of the connection of Aguri with Honda. Nick did a lot of work to try and find a viable solution for Aguri. Ross Brawn.

Currently, Ross runs the Honda Formula One operation. He has done so since late last year and arrived at Brackley after a decade of limelight-basking in Maranello. So when his current employer gets caught up in the possible failure of its satellite team, you’d think, being experienced and all, he might get involved. For sure, he wouldn’t be able to devote much time to the cause, but you would think he would have concerns. But really, we don’t know if Brawn does or does not. And this is because he has hardly uttered a word about Super Aguri since this all kicked off.

When Brawn arrived at Honda, he stated he would be making small, minor changes to help the team initially. Ross’s approach is very methodical and concise. I suspect the man has a very large checklist somewhere (perhaps in his head) that he goes through, even for the simplest of tasks. And I’m starting to wonder if the removal of Super Aguri from Honda’s bank balance was one of those things on his list. Admittedly, this isn’t a small, minor change. But it would help Brawn in his job if he was given more of a budget to play with (remember, he’s used to blank cheques from Fiat) and was able to solely focus on the efforts of his own team, both on track and politically in the background.

If, and that is quite possibly the second-largest ‘if’ I’ve made on this site, Ross was the reason behind Super Aguri receiving substantially less support this year, then I have a lot of respect for the man. Not because he’s removed a bottom-of-the-grid team from championship (that loses respect), but because he would have managed to do it and get all targets pointing at Nick Fry while he can freely walk around the media saying how sad it all is.

Whether Brawn was a key Honda-side player in the demise of Super Aguri or not, we will never likely know, and Aguri Suzuki appears to be very annoyed with Nick Fry at the moment, so maybe I am reading between the lines too much. But you have to admit, if Brawn was involved, he did well to save face and dodge bullets.

Image courtesy of HondaF1.

Original article by BlogF1.

Is Aguri Suzuki Upset With The Wrong Man?