Honda remains undecided on its 2009 lineup

Honda Racing boss Ross Brawn stated that he has not yet finalized his driver lineup for next year because the focus is currently on improving the car’s performance.

Although rumors suggested a desire from the team to have Fernando Alonso in their ranks, Brawn stated that choosing the drivers for 2009 is not a priority. He is currently working to successfully position the Japanese car manufacturer at the front of the grid.

When asked about the timelines this decision requires, Brawn stated: « We are in discussions, and this issue will evolve over the summer. Our priority is clearly to get a better car for next year. »

« I think we have two very good drivers, the first thing we need to do is to give them a decent car. A good car will give our drivers the opportunity to show what they can do. »

With Button very likely to be present in the team for next year, his teammate Rubens Barrichello has more concerns, and his situation will depend on Honda’s attempts to attract a driver with a certain reputation, like Alonso.

For the moment, the Brazilian is defending himself well. His recent races have gone well, particularly the one at Silverstone where he finished on the third step of the podium. He therefore needs to convince his bosses that he is still worth something in F1 for him to continue for an additional year.

Brawn believes that Barrichello improved once he took charge of operations at Honda. The two men had already worked together at Ferrari.

« He might be feeling better, » explained Brawn.

« In the footsteps of Michael Schumacher, he acknowledged that it was difficult to make a place for oneself alongside him. Michael was exceptional, and for any racing driver, being in the same team as Michael was a huge challenge. »

« I think Rubens is doing an excellent job. He might be a better driver than when I was at Ferrari. »