Ruben Barrichello and Jensen Button introduced the Honda's first 'All Works' model since 1968, as they took to the track at the Circuit de Catalunyain Barcelona, Spain earlier today.


Click on images to enlarge


The new Honda RA106 (Which stands for: RA=Racing; 1=Formula 1; 06=2006), has distinctive scooped wings on the side pods and carries with it the hopes of the 2006 Brazilian/British driving partnership. Team boss, Nick Fry, expects the RA106 to compete for wins this season, something which many speculators doubt will be possible, given the evolutionary nature of the car.


Ruben Barrichello is very optimistic about his partnership with Honda. According to Reuters, Barrichello said the test programme for the V8-engined Honda RA106, due to be launched in Barcelona on January 25, looked good.


"I am very excited about driving for a new team, especially for Honda, because the reason why I never left Ferrari is because I did not think there was anything better," he added.


"Right now there is something better and I hope I can help move the team forward and see if I can fulfil my dream of winning the championship."



Honda Racing have undergone some significant changes in the last couple of weeks, changes that are clearly necessary after 7 seasons without a win; beginning with an official name change in December 2005:


TOKYO, Japan, December 2, 2005 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that "Honda Racing F1 Team" is the new name chosen by Honda for its Formula One team following the acquisition by Honda of the full 100% shareholding B·A·R Honda.


This news confirmed by the 2006 FIA Formula One World Championship Entry List which was published yesterday.


Honda Racing F1 Team

Entry name: Lucky Strike Honda Racing F1 Team
Chassis: Honda RA106

Engine: Honda RA806E
Location: Brackley Northants, UK

Driver: Rubens Barrichello (Brazil) No. 11
Jenson Button (UK) No.12




Nick Fry, Chief Executive Officer, said:
"Over the past few weeks I have been delighted to observe the progress we have made in the transition to Honda ownership. The name change is perhaps the clearest manifestation of the fact that we are now all part of Honda. It creates a focal point for the team culture going forward, and with an eye towards Honda’s proud heritage, the name reminds us all that we have the depth, determination and resource required to fulfill our racing ambitions."


News from Honda Motor Sports




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