By GMM
Honda has not yet commenced talks with Rubens Barrichello about the renewal of his contract beyond 2008.
The Brazilian veteran on Sunday became the most experienced driver in formula one history as he raced for the 257th time.
Barrichello, 35, said in Turkey that he would like to keep going beyond his 300th race, meaning that he will need a deal not only for 2009, but also 2010.
But Honda team CEO Nick Fry insists that whether or not Barrichello can reach the mantle depends solely on whether he is quick enough to stay.
"If he is fast, he'll be here next year. And if he's not fast, he won't," said Fry quoted as saying by Reuters. "It's as simple as that."
Fry added that Barrichello is quick enough to be part of Honda's race lineup "at the moment".
He said contract talks have not begun yet. "It's not a priority at the moment," Fry explained.
"Because we've worked together now for two and half years and have extended his contract once, it can be renewed very easily. It's not going to be the subject of prolonged negotiation," he added.
Honda has not yet commenced talks with Rubens Barrichello about the renewal of his contract beyond 2008.
The Brazilian veteran on Sunday became the most experienced driver in formula one history as he raced for the 257th time.
Barrichello, 35, said in Turkey that he would like to keep going beyond his 300th race, meaning that he will need a deal not only for 2009, but also 2010.
But Honda team CEO Nick Fry insists that whether or not Barrichello can reach the mantle depends solely on whether he is quick enough to stay.
"If he is fast, he'll be here next year. And if he's not fast, he won't," said Fry quoted as saying by Reuters. "It's as simple as that."
Fry added that Barrichello is quick enough to be part of Honda's race lineup "at the moment".
He said contract talks have not begun yet. "It's not a priority at the moment," Fry explained.
"Because we've worked together now for two and half years and have extended his contract once, it can be renewed very easily. It's not going to be the subject of prolonged negotiation," he added.