Honda F1

After months of uncertainty, the Honda Racing F1 Team’s future in Formula One racing has been secured after a deal was struck between Honda Motor Company and Ross Brawn last March 6 to take full ownership of the squad.  With immediate effect, Honda passes the ownership of their F1 team to Brawn GP Formula One Team.

Brawn GP has agreed a partnership with UK-based Mercedes Benz High Performance engines to supply the team with its 2.4-liter FO108W Formula One power plants.

At the same time, Brawn confirmed that they have retained the services of Jenson Button and Ruben Barichello to drive their 2009 challengers.

“The past few months have been extremely challenging for the team but the announcement is a very pleasing conclusion to the strenuous efforts that have been made to secure its future,” Brawn said.

“Firstly, it is a great shame that having worked with Honda Motor Company for so long we can no longer continue together.  I would like to thank Honda for the fantastic cooperation and support we have received throughout this process – particularly members of the senior management who were closely involved with concluding our agreement and for the faith they have demonstrated in myself and our team.”

Brawn said he was delighted that both Button and Barichello decided to continue on with the Brawn GP Team saying that their vast experience and knowledge will prove invaluable as they aim to get up to speed in the shortest amount of time.

Brawn GP will now focus its efforts on the remaining pre-season tests in Barcelona and in Jerez on March 15-17 before heading on to Melbourne, Australia for the Formula One season opener on March 29.