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Richard Branson to Purchase Honda F1 Team

The chances of Honda's F1 team making the grid at Melbourne seem 50 to 50 right now. At least that's what has been suggested by British newspaper The Daily Telegraph, whose reporters have quoted an unnamed source within Honda. According to that source, the increase in optimist percentage came as a result of a late bid from a “third party”.

According to the aforementioned source, the company interested in buying Honda's F1 programme is “reputable, able to bring long-term financial stability, with a brand image known throughout the world. Formula One would do well to have them on board.”

Several rumors started to emerge concerning the identity of that third party joining Ross Brawn and Nicky Fry in their attempt to save the team. In an article shown on f1complete.com site, the rescuer might be British billionaire Sir Richard Branson, owner of travel, entertainment and lifestyle brand Virgin.

Neither Branson, nor a representative from Virgin have yet confirmed the news. If their bid is legitimate and real, the company should proceed to the buyout immediately, as the season opener in Australia is less than 40 days away. The Brackley-based team should also find an engine supplier in time, with Mercedes-Benz already agreeing to a potential partnership if the situation requires it.

Another rumor about a third party being interested in the buyout involved newly-based USF1 team. It was believed that the all-American team would be interested in profiting from an already established base at Brackley, rather than look for a new one in Spain. However, part-owner Ken Anderson denied the rumors delicately earlier this week.
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