Honda set to announce new driver this week

Ant to leave Honda
By Phil Huff
November 13 2006

As Honda Racing F1 prepare for the first winter test later this month, we understand that the teams new test driver, replacing Super Aguri bound Anthony Davidson, will be announced this week.

Current favourite for the role is Red Bull refugee Christian Klien, although McLaren test driver Gary Paffett is also in contention. GP2 front runner, and ex-Jordan F1 reserve, Timo Glock was considered previously, but we understand his services have been rejected.

The driver will replace Davidson, who is to join Super Aguri F1 before the end of the year, and the team are keen to make sure an experienced driver fills the role alongside James Rossiter, a member of Honda's Young Driver programme.

Klien has visited the Brackley factory to meet with the team, and was also a guest at the season finale race in Brazil. After falling out with Red Bull, his options appear to be limited to a testing role at either Honda or Spyker.

Paffett, the highly regarded test driver at McLaren, is unhappy at being overlooked for a race seat at the Woking based team, and has been given the all clear by his employers to look for alternatives. Given his McLaren experience, he is a very attractive prospect for the team, but has a number of other options available to him.

All should be revealed during this week.

We hear Jacques Villeneuve isn't too busy right now...