Ralf Schumacher to BAR Honda?

Ralf to BAR?
By Phil Huff (19/04/2004)
April 19 2004

The 2005 silly season kicked off last year, following McLaren's announcement of Montoya's move, and that season is continuing. The latest rumour? A reunion of the 2000 Williams team, but at Lucky Strike BAR Honda, as Ralf Schumacher joins the Brackley team.

Ralf Schumacher has been linked with nearly every team in F1, as he tries desperately to remain in the Grand Prix circus, but continues to be dogged by rumours of a move to Toyota. However, now BAR's name has been thrown into the mix.

With Sato's race engineer Jock Clear giving notice that Takuma has until mid-season to match the pace of team leader Jenson Button, there could well be a place for Ralf. However, Takuma is only two years into a three year contract, and is naturally favoured by team partner Honda.

Ralf Schumacher partnered Jenson Button back at Williams in 2000, and by the end of the season the Englishman had got the measure of his more experienced team mate. Jenson's highlights include qualifying third at drivers circuit Spa-Francorchamps, three places ahead of the German.

It's only the first of many future rumours that are bound to appear, so don't read too much into it.