Honda deny Sauber split rumours

Honda has denied reports that have suggested that it has withdrawn from the Sauber-Honda engine deal of 2018. These reports state that the deal between Sauber and Honda has been cancelled due to internal disputes within the Swiss team that is currently struggling at the back of the field in Formula 1.

"This is speculation, and we do not comment on speculation," said a Honda spokesperson according to Russia's Sportbox. "The relationship between Honda and Sauber is unchanged."

A deal between Honda and Sauber was confirmed in April under Monisha Kaltenborn's management of the team, however, since her departure, the deal has reportedly fallen through. As her departure was “by mutual consent”, it is believed that Longbow Finance do not wish to use uncompetitive Honda engines in 2018 and is instead seeking other power for next season, explaining the current situation at the team.

Most recently, Frederic Vasseur, the former team principal of Renault, was confirmed as the team's new principal - a role that he will take up after the British Grand Prix on July 17th to replace Kaltenborn.

Chris Soulsby