Brawn: Alonso key to driver market

Although Brawn would not comment on Honda's pursuit of Alonso, which is understood to be ongoing, he did say that the Spaniard's availability for next season was leaving a large part of the driver market in stasis.

"When Fernando makes his decision, a lot of other things will slot into place," said Brawn. "His options at Renault depended on results which were not achieved - everyone knows that."

Brawn confirmed that Honda would not be making any announcements about their 2009 driver line-up in the near future, suggesting his team are one of those waiting on Alonso's choice.

The team's current drivers, Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, are expected to be retained if the team don't land Alonso.

"It's not for some time yet - it's not immediate," he said. "It will be a little while."

Brawn also believes it is unlikely that Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen is considering retirement.

"I don't see the retirement of Kimi," said Brawn. "I don't get that impression - but that would certainly change a few things."