10/04/2007
NEWS STORY
Ferrari has reacted to rumours in the British media that Honda is to approach Ross Brawn, in an attempt to get the Brackley team back on track.
Following a disastrous weekend in Sepang, in which Rubens Barrichello and Jenson Button did well to get their RA107s home in eleventh and twelfth, sections of the British media reported that Honda is approaching Brawn who retired at the end of 2006, along with Rory Byrne and Michael Schumacher.
Ever since Brawn announced his decision to 'go fishing', there has been speculation as to the Englishman's future, with most F1 observers taking it for granted that should he return to the paddock it would be with Ferrari, indeed, there has been talk of his taking over as team boss in 2008.
Speaking to The Guardian, Ferrari's Luca Colajanni admitted that he hoped Brawn would talk to the Maranello outfit before making any decisions regarding his future, be it with Honda or anyone else.
"Ross is obviously a free agent," the Italian admitted, "but we would like to think there is a gentlemen's agreement that he will talk to us before deciding on his future plans."
In addition, the newspaper quotes a source, who clearly who sees no merit in such a move: "Why on earth would Ross want to join Honda if he's got the remotest chance of returning to Ferrari?" queries the source. "It doesn't make sense. Ross isn't a car designer, he's a technical manager."
The fact is that the problems Honda is currently suffering will not be solved with the recruitment of one man, even if that man is Ross Brawn. According to knowledgeable Brackley observers a major shake-up is needed, particularly at the top.
We are certain that 'Helios' will cast light on the situation and the speculation.