The Honda team’s comeback for good?

The new head of the executive team at Honda Motor Company hinted at the Japanese manufacturer’s return to Formula 1.

Under the leadership of Takeo Fukui, who is leaving his position as president in June, and due to the global financial crisis, Honda decided to withdraw from the sport after the 2008 season, citing the need to protect its main activities.

But with Takanobu Ito, the future president and CEO of Honda, things might be different considering a presence in F1 as very challenging, but also very enjoyable.

« Unfortunately, at the moment our company is slightly ‘stalled’. But we are committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible to work in sports again and thus regain the joy of racing, » he explained during a press conference in Tokyo.

Honda was an F1 team during the periods 1963/1968 and 2005/2008, but its success was built as an engine supplier in the 80s and 90s.

Furthermore, Honda Racing would be ready to begin its pre-season tests a few weeks before the Australian Grand Prix.

Despite the lack of a buyer to ensure the team’s near future, the staff has been instructed to prepare for tests.

However, it might be too early to talk about tests in Jerez next week, but the team should be able to join the last major event in Barcelona in March.

There is also the possibility that the team could conduct a shakedown in Great Britain before testing on the continent.

Without yet having the name of a potential owner, the greatest possibility remains the management buyout of the team, which will be set up in the coming days between Ross Brawn and Nick Fry.

An internal source at the team told the BBC: « There is no way to go for testing without a real contract with an engine supplier. If we do, that would mean we have a contract. For now, we continue to act as if we are going to Melbourne. »

Regarding the drivers, Jenson Button is almost certain to keep his seat within the team as the number 1. Negotiations with the Brazilians for the second seat continue, either to retain Rubens Barrichello for his experience or to trust in the youth of Bruno Senna.