Formula One news

Brawn future safe with new backing

It has been reported that the Brawn GP team has confirmed a number of new sponsors which will ensure the safe future of the Brackley outfit for the next three seasons. Although names of the backers are yet to be revealed, the partnerships are all set to begin at the start of next year.

Nick Fry, chief executive officer of the Brawn GP team

With Brawn already having stated that its 2009 association with Virgin will end at the conclusion of the season, Autosport revealed on Tuesday that a raft of new partners will provide firm backing for the ex-Honda squad until at least the end of the 2012 season.

"We have zero worries on funding for this year, next year, the year after, and the year after that," Brawn CEO Nick Fry explained. "I smile when people talk about money because we've always had the finances for this year and neither Ross (Brawn) nor I would not have taken on the team if we did not have the money for this year.

"We've signed some nice contracts - and those will come out into the open when we launch the car next year - but we will see what happens. There is zero worry on our side."

The Brawn-Virgin connection will be no more at the end of 2009

"That was a log jam because sponsors wanted to know what the situation was and things are freeing up," added team principal Ross Brawn. "Everyone up the pit lane will find that things are now much better because we know what the commercial basis is for the future; we know we are going to be racing for the next three years, at least, in this championship and I hope beyond - I hope we don't get into discussions about alternative championships again."

We regards to Virgin, both parties have already signalled an end to their successful 2009 affiliation although Fry is keen to assist Richard Branson's world-famous name in its quest to continue in Formula One. "We are helping where we can in advice about what they can do with Manor," he said. "I really do hope they are successful - not only next year but beyond - because they are a good company and it is a good company for F1 to have."

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