Anthony Davidson has been confirmed as Honda F1 Racing (formerly BAR)’s third driver for a fourth year. Davidson has started three Grands Prix – two for Minardi and one for BAR – and has made clear his desire for a full-time race seat. The move ends speculation that he might drive for the nascent Super Aguri team, who are expected to field an all-Japanese line-up.
He is the first among a roster of talented British drivers looking to break into Formula One. 2005 Deustche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) champion Gary Paffett has forfeited his title defence season to become a McLaren test driver. 2004 and 2005 World Touring Car Champion Andy Priaulx tested twice for Williams during their partnership with Priaulx’s BMW employers. GP2 race winner Adam Carroll has tested for BAR.
All have proven their speed and the backing of a major UK sponsor could be all they need to break into F1. Any takers?