Honda begin survival fight

Honda Motor Co Ltd's decision to immediately pull the plug on their £200million-per-year F1 operation has left Fry and Brawn with only a few weeks to find a buyer. Fry has confirmed three expressions of interest have already been received, all from overseas, with one - if not all - likely to be Middle Eastern in origin.

"We have to have credible interest this side of Christmas," stated Fry. "Clearly, that doesn't mean we are going to have a deal done by the end of the year, but Honda need to be convinced there are serious, potential buyers out there."

While other prospective buyers are almost certain to step forward, it will become a question of separating the wheat from the chaff.

Fry and Brawn, along with other senior managers at Honda Racing, are hoping a new owner can be found by Christmas, with any deal then concluded in the new year.

With the team already geared up for the new season, and with Honda Japan keeping them afloat through to the end of March ahead of the opening race in Australia, all that is required is an owner with very deep pockets to see them through next year and beyond.

"Honda have agreed to provide us with a budget, not quite the one we had, but a budget which will enable us to be on the grid in Melbourne," Fry added.

"If we get to Melbourne and we are not there, then clearly at that stage the situation will look very bleak. I don't think there is an instance of a team not starting the season and successfully coming in later - even though the rules allow it.

"In theory we could miss four races, but so far history shows no-one has ever done that. The proof of the pudding will be if we are in Melbourne or not.

"It is going to be difficult, but we have had three different serious groups approach us with a view to taking on the team. So, we will see what happens over the next few weeks."