“Honda has already said it will not supply us with engines, so that's why I contacted Ferrari. We haven't signed anything yet but I really appreciated the support from president Luca di Montezemolo and Stefano Domenicali. It's like being among former schoolmates: they still see me as one of their own,” Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport quoted Brawn as saying.
However, the Englishman insisted that this year, much like 2008, will mark a transitional phase in the team's preparation for 2010. With most of the development programme for 2009 compromised by Honda's decision to withdraw from the sport, Brawn & Co are likely to play more of a surviving role in 2009, especially with the new rule changes.
“There's no hurry because modifying the car to install a different engine requires at least six weeks of work anyway. It's unlikely we'll manage to be on track during the winter. That's why we are studying a package of evolutions for 2010, when we aim to step up the ladder. Next year will remain for us a transitional one,” added Brawn.
Also, the former Honda F1 boss argued that his position within the team is also subject to change should the new investor decide to bring in new management. “The objective is to save the jobs... my presence is certainly not a priority,” concluded Brawn.
Ross Brawn and Nick Fry are yet to find a buyer for their F1 team, with the highest chances now resting with Prodrive boss David Richards. Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim was also rumored to have had an interest in buying the outfit, but Brawn denied such allegations.
“This gentleman never visited us and didn't show any intention of buying the team either,” commented the Englishman.
Google News