Honda buys 45% of BAR

As has been rumored for the past week, Honda has purchased a 45% stake in British American Racing (BAR) from British American Tobacco (BAT). The new joint venture company will replace the existing management structure, which will include the replacement of current Chief Executive David Richards. Only a complete buyout by Honda could have been better for the long term stability of the team, as BAT has mode no secret of it's desire to get out of F1 by the time the global advertising bans come into effect in 2006. Honda no doubt hopes this move will bring them back to the top of Formula One, as their return to the sport has been difficult despite dominating in the 1980's and early 1990's.