Honda to buy BAR rumour resurfaces.

Comments by Hirotoshi Honda at Suzuka this weekend, suggesting that Mugen is not yet finished with Formula One, have heightened speculation that Honda may purchase British American Racing.

The car maker is said to be considering taking control of BAR, and running it as a factory team, leaving Mugen to continue servicing Honda engines once its deal with Jordan expires at the end of the current season.

Speaking at yesterday's FIA press conference, Honda said that an announcement would be made about the company's plans in Malaysia in two weeks time. The news, if true, would be less than perfect for Jordan. They have coveted a works engine supply from Honda for two years, but would surely be relegated to second in the pecking order for developments should Honda have its own full works team.

The revelation could also have implications for Barry Green's proposed move from CART to F1 at the end of the year. The Team Green boss has been strongly linked to a management role at BAR, courtesy of the two outfits mutual backer BAT, but is reportedly considering his options following an information leak at the latter's Brackley base.

Whether a Honda takeover would scupper Green's move remains to be seen, as the ex-pat Australian currently uses the Japanese units to power his team in the USA.