29/02/2008
NEWS STORY
Super Aguri co-owner Fumio Akita has assured the team's many fans that the Leafield-based outfit will be on the grid in Melbourne in two weeks.
His vow comes after a string of disappointing postponements from the Japanese team, which, having originally delayed the launch of its 2008 car, subsequently cancelled its participation in the two final pre-season tests at Barcelona.
"The cancellation was because some parts hadn't arrived in time," Akita told Reuters. "We are usually scrambling to be ready for the start of the season. It was very tight last year and this year is following the same pattern. But we will be on the grid for Melbourne. We're not worried at all about missing out."
With the team previously admitting that the launch was delayed whilst talks continue with potential sponsors and investors, Akita said: "Talks are still going on and I'm told there are three potential investors. Obviously, we have to think of the future and what's best for the team."
While there are thought to be a number of consortiums interested in purchasing a slice of the team, Akita refused to rule out a full buy-out, however, there would be certain complications.
"It might be 100 percent," he admitted. "But obviously any sponsors or investors who leave the infrastructure there and back the team to improve results would be ideal. How much any potential stake in the team would be does depend on the conditions the investor has. But even if it's a 100 percent stake you can't sensibly get rid of the team per se.
"If you have no Aguri (Suzuki) you probably lose Honda as engine suppliers," he added. "If investors come in and say they can bring in BMW engines that's a different story. But even if we give up 100 percent share it doesn't necessarily mean the owner or the team name goes with it."