Thursday 26th February 2009 Planet F1
Honda will reportedly test for the first time since December at the Jerez circuit in Spain next week as hopes rise the team will participate in the 2009 season.
Jenson Button, together with 700 staff members, was left in the lurch after the Japanese manufacturer put their F1 team up for sale at the end of last year, citing financial reasons.
And although two interested parties, Virgin as well as a Honda management group, are believed to be in talks over purchasing the outfit, as yet nothing has transpired.
However, the positive news from the BBC today is that Honda Racing's staff have been told that a "deal is close."
A senior Honda source told the Beeb: "We're carrying on as if we're going to Melbourne," and likened the team's current situation to "being in the final stages of buying a house when the contracts are agreed and signed and it's with the lawyers."
The source, though, did not reveal which of the two parties has put pen to paper - or if a third option has come to the fore.
But as a result the team is now gearing up for the new season with the intension of taking part in next week's Jerez test, using their new 2009 car. A possible shakedown at Silverstone before the end of the week is also on the cards.
The new car is expected to be fitted with a Mercedes engine, as the team joins the list of those, including McLaren and Force India, that are powered by German power.
"There's no way we'd go to any test without an engine deal," the source said. "If we're going to Jerez, it means it's a done deal."
However, another aspect that is still up in the air is who will partner Button this season.
Bruno Senna was believed to be on the verge of signing a deal with Honda, however, it's not known if the new team owners will go ahead with the contract.
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