Barrichello edges closer to Williams drive in 2010
By Phil Huff
October 6 2009
As first revealed at RealBrawnGP.com on 16 July, championship contender Rubens Barrichello is poised to switch teams for 2010 and take a drive with rival Williams next year, following discussions with the Grove outfit that have been going on for some time.
Barrichello opened talks with Williams once it became clear mid-season that his performances weren't enough to guarantee a drive in 2010 although, with the supposed buy-in of the team from Mercedes-Benz, no driver is 'safe' for next year, including championship leader Jenson Button.
The Brazilian would be expected to drive alongside Nico Hulkenberg, the current Williams reserve driver and GP2 champion, giving the team its desired balance of youth and experience.
"We've had many different drivers in Williams over the years in both camps - experienced guys and rookies," explained Williams technical director Sam Michael, "and they have all had their plus and minuses. But the most important thing is that they are fast, this is first and foremost for us."
Brawn may still choose to retain Barrichello but, with Mercedes money and the expected arrival of Nico Rosberg, ironically moving away from Williams, it is looking increasingly unlikely.
Barrichello remains the most experienced driver in Formula One, having started 282 races thus far. After remaining at Brawn for 2009, in what was seen as a last chance to race for the driver, he would move to over 300 starts in 2010 should he secure the Williams drive.