Honda denies favouritism over Sato

Reigning British Formula 3 champion Sato is one of the most promising racing talents to come out of Japan, and even though Honda is thought to have helped persuade BAR to release the Japanese ace from his testing contract to join Jordan, the car giant denies that there will be any favouritism in 2002.

"First of all we would like to congratulate Sato as the first Japanese driver to win a Formula Three championship overseas," said Honda motorsport boss Kazutoshi Nishizawa. "He should also be congratulated for finding his way into Formula 1.

"We at Honda are particularly happy because he is a graduate of Honda's racing academy so we hope that more will follow. We are very happy. I think he is a talented driver."

Asked directly about the team's engine policy between the two teams for 2002, he added: "They have equal status so there won't be any difference."

The two teams are currently neck and neck in equal fifth spot in the constructors' world championship with 17 points apiece. Both will be fighting to gain the upper hand in the season-closing Japanese Grand Prix this weekend, Honda's home event.