Honda has major hope for F1 return

'We would like to have a win within three years,' said Takeo Fukui, Honda managing director, 'but we are a bit quick-tempered, and we have our own internal expectations, which we should not reveal today.'

Last week Honda revealed a three-year deal with BAR but the link will go far beyond supplying works engines. The car manufacturer will also be heavily involved in car design at the outfit.

Jordan has also recently announced an extension to their engine deal with sister company Mugen Honda.

Their contract guarantees them the same engine specification as BAR but in its announcement last week Honda stressed that it regards BAR as its works team.

The statement read, 'Honda's F1 challenge will not be limited to simply supplying engines, but will be a more comprehensive effort, including total machine development, in conjunction with BAR.

'Honda and BAR will both be involved in racing car chassis development work in new technological fields, including chassis management systems.'

Insiders claim that Honda is already putting pressure on its new partner to use the test car the Japanese company has been running this season as the basis for their 2000 challenger.

Rumours say that BAR clinched its deal with Honda by agreeing to contribute financially to Honda's racing programme.

Apparently BAT will pay US$50 million a year that would go towards Honda's international sports programme, including motorbike racing.

Both BAR and Honda refused to comment on the financial details of the agreement but BAR boss Craig Pollock insisted his team would be in a better position than Jordan.