Brawn to go 'virtual' for Suzuka

Brawn has a back complaint and has decided to miss the long-haul flight to Japan. Instead, he will be based at the team's Maranello headquarters and will continue to work via video digital links for on-track action, debriefs and race strategy planning.

"Ferrari's communications people will ensure that I can keep in close contact with the track team at all times and have an input during the race weekend. I expect to have as much grasp of teh situation as if I was actually there."

Barrichello explained this will not be the first time that he has worked with 'virtual Ross'. "In Monza when he wasn't there on Friday," said the Brazilian. "It was unbelievable that he could come on the radio via the telephone and so he was virtually there.

"For sure, Ross is going to get involved and he is getting together with Rory [Byrne] for a night away from bed.

"It is just a fantastic technology. He can come on the radio whenever he wishes."