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Tuesday, March 12, 2013

McLaren Honda 2015

Okay so I got the year wrong, and maybe I've got the team wrong. Autosport have reported that their source inside Honda has confirmed that they'll be back in Formula 1 in 2015 with McLaren.

McLaren, of course, continue to muddy the waters on this much flagged return with Martin Whitmarsh reiterating that they have a deal with Mercedes for the next three seasons (should they so desire) and saying
I can't elaborate any further
The tone of the "denial" leaves it open for McLaren to confirm the anticipated switch of engine supplier to early next year when they will begin designing the 2015 car.  I'm assuming that will be the time when it will be necessary to make the confirmation in order that they'll be able to design the car around the new engine.

Mansell leads Piquet to a 1-2 at the British GP in the FW11 Honda at Brands Hatch in 1986
Copyright LAT Photgraphic/Williams F1
 Should Honda wish to supply a second team Williams are the natural recipients.  They too have a great history with Honda, particularly during the turbo era when they ran a 1.6 Honda V6 turbo engine between 1984 and 1987, winning two Constructors' and one Drivers' Championship.

Personally, I'd like to see Williams get a works engine.  The team has achieved its best results in these circumstances and I think history has shown that, with the right equipment Williams is a force to be reckoned with.

Kylami, SA 1985, Mansell leads the chasing pack away in the FW10 Honda. Williams score a 1-2 with Mansell and Rosberg
Copyright LAT Photographic/Williams F1