Is there anything in this world that billionaire Richard Branson isn’t interested in? The British tycoon already has over 360 ventures under the control his Virgin Group, and he may soon add another.
According to an unnamed spokesperson for Honda, Branson is in discussions, along with other unknown interested parties, to purchase the erstwhile Formula 1 team that was formerly part of a factory-backed effort from the Japanese automaker.
The 2009 F1 season begins in Australia on March 29, and officials for the ex-Honda racing team have been under frantic negotiations to get their stars aligned and cars on the starting grid ever since Honda announced it was pulling its support from the team late last year.
Current speculation suggests that the team may use engines from Mercedes-Benz, though a decision on the team’s fate would need to be made as quickly as possible.
F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has said that he’s personally spoken with Branson about the possibility and has offered public support for Virgin’s bid.
[Source: Reuters]
