Honda Deny Buyout Deadline

Honda don't seem too eager to finalize the buyout of their F1 operations, as revealed by a spokeswoman earlier today. The Brackley-based team was believed to have until January 31 to find an investor willing to take over as team owner in Formula 1. However, according to Reuters news agency, a Honda official denied such allegations, insisting that all is under control as far os the Japanese manufacturer is concerned.

“Don't focus too much on any speculation regarding time frames and deadlines,” the Honda spokeswoman was quoted as saying by the aforementioned source.

However, Ross Brawn's words cannot be denied, as the Englishman insisted that, as far as the technical aspect goes, the Brackley-based outfit need to secure an engine deal at least 6 weeks before the start of the new season. That would give the mechanics the right amount of time to fit the new powerplant into the car's design and test it properly before the first race in Melbourne.

Until now, only German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz publicly announced their willingness to supply F1 engines to Honda Racing should they find a buyer any time soon. Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Director Norbert Haug insisted, however, that Brawn's team should hurry up if they want the deal to be finalized for 2009.

According to some media reports quoting Honda F1 CEO Nick Fry, the Japanese manufacturer has narrowed the search for a potential investor to 12 offers, but a final decision is to be taken by the end of the month. Until then, the team officials insisted that all work is being focused on developing the 2009 challenger.