Honda has claimed to be 'disappointed' by Aguri Suzuki's decision to pull the plug on his ailing Super Aguri
F1 team, but admitted that it was inevitable given the operation's current circumstances.
Maintaining its stance that it was not prepared to continue to prop the team up financially, the Japanese giant issued a statement saying that the collapse of the deal with potential rescuer Magma had effectively spelt the end of the road for
Super Aguri.
"The Super Aguri F1 team has been offering dreams to the
Formula One fans as a Japanese team," the missive from Tokyo read, "
Takuma Sato and
Anthony Davidson have also contributed through their rich talent, persistent efforts and fighting spirit.
"Honda has been supporting the Super Aguri F1 team by supplying engines and financial support, amongst others, since its establishment in 2005. Especially since 2007, we have been deeply involved in discussions together with the team to find sponsors and partners.
"At the beginning of the 2008 season, when the team started negotiations with the strong candidate Magma Group, Honda has actively co-operated by proposing many forms of support. Just when we thought the three groups have reached an agreement, we were told that Magma and their financial backers had decided not to pursue the deal.
"Honda has continued to support the team as much as possible, but Aguri Suzuki has come to Honda and expressed his decision to withdraw from Formula One as he is not capable of establishing a foundation for independent operation of the team.
"The Super Aguri F1 team's withdrawal is indeed very disappointing for us, but we understand that it was inevitable unless the team could find a way to stand alone by itself in the future.
"We would like to express our thankfulness to the Super Aguri F1 team and all the fans who have supported them for sharing the dreams and fighting together with
Honda."
