HONDA are poised to announce a return to Formula One, with Williams their probable partners.
The Oxfordshire based team was left looking for a new engine supplier yesterday following Renault's decision to withdraw from Grand Prix racing when contracts with Williams and Benetton run out at the end of next season.
Japan's Honda, who dominated the sport for six years between 1986 and 1991 - they won two world titles with Williams and four with McLaren - have been known to be considering a comeback for some time.
The departure from the scene of Renault dovetails neatly with their plans to mark the 50th anniversary of Honda in 1998 with a major motor sport development.
"There is nothing official at the moment regarding a return to Formula One," said a Honda spokesperson yesterday.
"If any plans are being geared up to show Honda's expertise it would make sense to be around that time. An announcement could be made in the next couple of weeks."
Renault, who powered three drivers to world titles and also won four constructors' crowns with Williams and Benetton since their return in 1989, caused a major surprise with their announcement.
The French company said it had surpassed the objectives set when they came back into Formula One, though possible redundancies at home may have made continuing their £40 million a year investment problematic.
The news is certain to spark a battle for the top engines with Williams and Benetton likely to fight it out for who will link up with Honda if they should return.
But the fact that Williams have been partners before and the knowledge that they continue to produce the best car on the grid would make them clear favourites.
In brief: Hubert O'Reilly informs me of an admirable competition which is being launched at Seapoint next Wednesday. Sponsored by Friends Provident, the North South Challenge: Cup involves teams of 24 businessmen/players from both sides of the Border who will be competing in fourballs for a Sheffield plate antique cup ... The Paul Conaty Memorial Tournament, in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, will be held at Clontarf on July 5th... The Skerries Open Mixed Foursomes Competition, sponsored by Bank of Ireland, runs from Saturday, July 20th, to the 27th. Telephone 849-1567 for timesheet reservations . .. Based on five people per car, Irish Ferries are offering return travel from £68 to the British Open at Royal Lytham - next month ... Seapoint GC is the venue on Monday for the Irish Regional final of the Lombard Top Club Trophy ... The Monday Golfers' Society are holding their 50th Anniversary outing, on Monday, naturally ... In a charity outing for Sheltered Housing in Maynooth, Knockanally member Ray Grehan became the first player to hole in one at the short 12th at The K Club ... Spawell are offering a corporate package for the Murphy's Irish Open, with helicopter flights to Druids Glen. Details from (01) 490123.
