Barrichello to Sign Honda Racing Extension

Rubens Barrichello is to extend his streak of Formula 1 starts further on, as he is rumored to have already secured a deal with Honda's F1 outfit for the new season. The information was revealed by British website www.autosport.com, whose latest report shows that the Brazilian veteran will almost for sure join Jenson Button in the team's lineup for 2009.

The aforementioned source quoted a high level source connected to Honda Racing's new management – to be provided by Ross Brawn and, most likely, Nick Fry. Although it was expected for Brazilian Bruno Senna to step in for the job in 2009, it seems Barrichello's luck is yet to run out. The F1 veteran – currently holding the record for F1 starts – was presumably picked because of his extensive experience in F1.

Given that the Brackley-based team – whose designation is yet to be unveiled – will use new Mercedes power trains for the upcoming season, not to mention the new aerodynamic changes and introduction of the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), experience will play a key role in the 2009-spec cars' development throughout 2009.

Although rumors have emerged concerning a management buyout of the team by the Brawn & Fry duo (although the latter is expected to take another role with the new team), Honda is yet to make an official statement on the matter. According to media reports in Japan – namely the Yomiuri newspaper – a source from within the Japanese manufacturer revealed that a final decision will be announced in short time.

“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,” revealed the source, as reported by the aforementioned source.