Bernie Ecclestone is involved in discussions between the Virgin Group and Honda about a takeover of the latter's Formula One team.
"We're working to try and make it happen," F1 boss says
Bernie Ecclestone is involved in ongoing discussions between Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Honda about a proposed takeover of the latter's Formula One team.
The deadline for any agreement comes next week, just over a month ahead of the first race of the season, in Melbourne on March 29.
"I've spoken to Richard's people about it. He would love to do it," F1's commercial rights controller was quoted as saying in
The Guardian.
"I'd like it very much. It would be super. We're working to try and make it happen."
It is understood the deadline could be extended if negotiations between Virgin and Honda are moving in a positive direction.
However, with Honda also admitting that the Brackley-based team could yet be disbanded, Ecclestone was guarded as to whether a deal could be agreed.
He added: "I have no idea which way it will go. I wouldn't bet on it either way."
The only other option appears a management buyout spearheaded by Honda Racing chief executive Nick Fry and team principal Ross Brawn.
Honda decided to pull the plug on their £200million-per-year F1 operation last December due to the global financial crisis.
The decision has also put the future of star driver Jenson Button in the balance.
