Dennis: Honda Decision Is "unprofessional".

Ron Dennis and Bernie Ecclestone have both slammed Honda's apparent U-turn over entering Formula One next season.


The Japanese company had requested a place among the elite twelve teams contesting grands prix in 2000, receiving provisional confirmation of its entry some time ago, but now appears to be backing out of the deal. Rumours circulating in the Imola paddock suggested that both Jordan and British American Racing would receive Honda engines next season, but that a full works team would not be forthcoming.


"I don't think it is the behaviour to be expected from a multi-national company," Dennis said on hearing the story, "In fact, it's wrong."


Honda's withdrawal would have several repercussions on the rest of the field, as other potential entrants scramble for the coveted twelfth place. Toyota is known to be interested in F1 - albeit initially because Honda was returning - and has held discussions with Benetton, Sauber and Stewart with regard to buying an entry. Any team wishing to enter a partnership with the Japanese giant may now find itself without that option as Toyota could apply to join the grand prix circus in its own right.


Dennis also claimed that the German Zakspeed team had been denied an entry this season because the twelfth place was being held open for Honda.