Honda Withdrawal – Senna Still Dreams of F1

The GP2 World Vice-Champion, Bruno Senna, remains optimistic about his chances of securing a place in Formula 1 next year despite Honda’s announcement of withdrawal.

The Brazilian tested for the Japanese manufacturer in Barcelona last month and was in the running for a spot alongside Jenson Button in 2009.

However, Honda announced that it is withdrawing from F1 with immediate effect and will close its Brackley factory unless a buyer comes forward.

« It’s a bit of a shock, we didn’t know, the situation is more than serious, » said Senna.

They told me on Thursday, it’s a difficult situation for the team but at the same time, I would like to thank Honda once again for giving me the chance to test a Formula 1 car. I know I am ready to be a race driver.

« It was a great opportunity for me to go there and show what I could do in a F1 car. »

Despite Honda’s withdrawal, Senna would have other options.

« I am not in a desperate position. I have not given up on the race next year. We are working very hard on other possibilities, » he continued.

I’m in contact with everyone who can help me, such as Nick Fry or Ross Brawn at Honda, because if someone buys the team, I would then be a potential driver. There are a lot of variables and we just need to sort them out to get something.

With two tests coming up at the Jerez circuit in December, Senna would like to participate in other tests but he claims that they are not crucial for his plans.

« Obviously, the best situation for me would be to test with another team and do a good job, but I’ve already shown what I can do. »

« Many people were impressed by my results in Barcelona. In general, I heard good comments from people inside and outside the paddocks. »

Senna added that his fallback position would be another season in GP2 with iSport and that he would be delighted to regularly participate in Formula 1 tests.