Prodrive to take over BAR?

David Richards' arrival at British American Racing last week will, many believe, lead to the eventual handing over of the team to his Prodrive engineering concern.

According to the rumour mill at, and following, BAR's official pre-2002 launch one week ago, Prodrive will take over from current owners British American Tobacco when the axe falls on cigarette sponsorship in motorsport from 2006. It is suggested that the tobacco giant will look to offload the F1 operation for a lower than expected price, enabling Prodrive to pick the reins without stretching itself financially.

Richards was understandably coy when questioned about the possible takeover, merely claiming, when questioned, that his company did not need to use Formula One as a promotional tool.

"[The deal] is longer than [the two years suggested by the media]," he insisted, "It's an evolving agreement intended to see out [BAT's] involvement in the team. Clearly, Prodrive doesn't need to advertise on a F1 team, so I think we will be looking for another partner in six years time when the tobacco ban comes into operation."

That other partner may already be involved with Richards, with speculation centering on a possible deal with current Prodrive rally partner Subaru which could lead to the Asian company supplying engines to the team.

Subaru is also owned by General Motors and, as such, its entry would create the perfect route for GM to enter Formula One after years of speculation. Such a move would also add another of the world's top three motor manufacturers to the sport's roster. However, a great
deal still hangs on the outcome of the stand-off between the GPWC and Kirch as to which championship the manufacturers will support.

Until then, Richards will assume the role of team principal formerly held by founder member Craig Pollock, who quit on the eve of the launch.