Roberts close to finalising future

As revealed last month, Team Roberts looks set to become part of a global branded concept - similar to what Red Bull have done in two and four wheels motorsport.

One of the team's sponsors from last year, F1-Max X, is believed to be part of this deal - as well as Las Vegas casino Treasure Island. However, sources suggest that the eventual funding for the team could come from billion-dollar Las Vegas interests.

A source told autosport.com: "In the next month or so we are close to having a more definitive answer as to when the team will be back on the grid."

Team Roberts have insisted that although they will miss the start of the season, they would look to return later in the season once the funding was in place.

They have been linked with a deal for Ducati bike and engines. And, although Ducati boss Claudio Domenicali said in January that it was now too late to supply bikes to Roberts, the source said that the sheer amount of money that may become available is "likely to attract someone's attention."

Should a deal for Ducati bikes and engines be complete, then Roberts would easily be able to return this year. However, should only a deal for power-units be possible, then the team may have to wait for 2009 to make their comeback.

Team Roberts have not yet re-hired their mechanics and told staff to take work elsewhere if they can get it. Crew Chief Tom Jojic has already taken up a position with the Kawasaki test team.