Honda yet to decide on '09 line-up

Although it is understood that terms have been agreed with Jenson Button to remain on board next year, no decision has yet been taken about the second seat.

Alonso has been offered a drive alongside Button and the team will hold out for as long as it takes for the Spaniard to decide on what he wants to do before they make their mind up about the second seat.

With Alonso stating that he will wait until after the Brazilian GP to finalise what he wants to do in 2009, it means Honda Racing are unlikely to announce either of their drivers until after the season has finished.

"We haven't set a time frame to decide (ourselves)," said team principal Ross Brawn. "It will be after the season finishes, but there is no desperate rush."

The situation also means that Rubens Barrichello may head into his home race in Brazil not sure if it will be his final F1 race.

The Brazilian is believed to still have a chance to stay on board if Alonso decides to remain at Renault, and Honda opt to not take a young driver like Bruno Senna.

The decision on a young driver could well be influenced by how strong the team believe they have a chance of securing a top-line driver like Alonso or Robert Kubica to partner Button in 2010.

Should the team feel the possibility is good, then they may choose to sign Barrichello for one final season, rather than bring on a youngster for just a single campaign.