By Phil Huff
November 30 2007

Rumours surfacing in Germany have suggested that Fernando Alonso is up for a seat at Honda Racing F1, following an alleged factory visit and seat fitting. However, here at RealHondaF1.com, we've not managed to find anyone prepared to confirm the Spaniards presence at Brackley, let alone the seat fitting.

While the German tabloid newspaper speculates that Alonso will join Honda, replacing Rubens Barrichello who would duly head off to Super Aguri, the Brackley quad's press team were certain of the situation.

"Fernando has not visited our factory," explained a spokesperson, "and Honda Racing confirmed their drivers for the 2008 season back in July."

Sine that July time, new team principal Ross Brawn has also backed Barrichello, as well as team mate Jenson Button. "My view is that both the team's drivers are more than capable [of winning grands prix]," commented Brawn. "On his day Rubens was as quick as Michael [Schumacher] and Jenson is outstanding. They are as good as anyone. Let's hope we can give them the material to do the job."

Despite all that, we do remain confident that Barrichello's seat is not as safe as his contracted status might suggest. Should a young 'hotshot' (such as Nico Rosberg, perhaps) become available following a driver shuffle, led by Alonso, then the team could launch a bid for a long term deal.

That in itself is something that counts against Alonso joining Honda, as reports from all sources suggest that his manager, Luis Garcia Abad, is offering the Spanish driver on a short term basis, as little as one year.