autoevolution
 

Barrichello Denies Williams Links

Although many were expecting the Rubens Barrichello – Williams F1 move to be hinted one way or the other by either of the two parties, it now seems that the F1 veteran is not so close to inking a deal with Frank Williams' outfit after all. According to Barrichello's spokesman, the Brazilian is yet to make up his mind about his future team, as he is now more focused on the 2009 season rather than the upcoming one.

Barrichello is currently the oldest Formula One driver in the active field, while also the most experienced one. He holds the record for the most starts in the series and is currently battling for the world title against teammate Jenson Button. Being that this is the first time Rubens actually has a shot at becoming world title, his neglecting the 2010 contract seems more or less understandable.

We do not have anything to say about that. Season 2010 is not one of the things that we are deciding upon now,” said the spokesman in an interview with Folha de S.Paulo newspaper. In addition, he named the potential move as “pure speculation”.

Following rumors that Mercedes would back Nico Rosberg for a move to Brawn in 2010 – given that the Germany-licensed driver will end his deal with Williams at the end of this season – and that Jenson Button is basically Ross Brawn's protege at Brackley, the rumors regarding a switch between Rosberg and Barrichello started surfacing in the media in recent weeks.

In the meantime, however, Button's contractual rates for the upcoming season – in the event of him becoming world champion in the following month – may not be fulfilled by Brawn. The British team is currently struggling with finances, and keeping Button for an additional year has become uncertain during the past month.

Talking about his future in F1, Barrichello hinted that this is 100 percent certain, only he doesn't know the team for which he is to start next year. According to some sources, he may very well decide to stay at Brawn, should the team fail to convince Button to extend his contract for 2010.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories