Honda poised for focus on BAR

Honda has decided to focus its efforts solely on British American Racing next year and will end its contract with Jordan a year earlier than originally planned, according to this week's AUTOSPORT magazine

AUTOSPORT's sources have revealed that Honda will negotiate a settlement with Jordan, which will now require a new engine deal for 2003. No official announcement will be forthcoming from Honda for some time, however, as Honda's president of research and development, Takeo Fukui, said: "Even when we've decided, we can't tell you."

BAR's team principal David Richards has said it is essential for the future of his squad that it receives full-scale manufacturer-support, and that Honda needs to focus on BAR to take the next step forward. It has already begun testing an 'Athena' version of last year's BAR 003 chassis that features a special Honda electronics package.

"I don't think the team has embraced it [their relationship] fully and looked at the full potential," he said.

Jordan, meanwhile, is understood to have already sounded out Cosworth about a supply of its engines for next year. Ironically, BAR is the only grand prix team not to have scored a point this year, and Jordan has finished in the top six in the last three events.

For the full story, read this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, on sale now priced £2.80.