By Phil Huff
August 2 2005

Rubens Barrichello took one step closer to becoming a BAR Honda driver today when Ferrari confirmed that Felipe Massa will replace him at the Italian team in 2006. Despite confirming just three days ago that he has a contract with Ferrari, Rubens Barrichello is now leaving the Italian team, with BAR Honda being his likely new home.

Rubens still refuses to admit he has already signed a contract with BAR Honda, although it is understood that he is now tied to the Brackley team.

One thing that could ease the move is BAR Honda's Sporting Director Gil de Ferrans' presence in the team. Barrichello and de Ferran are good friends, although Rubens denies that has any impact on negotiations.

"Gil has always been a friend of mine," said Barrichello. "That's what I think started all the rumours because of this friendship. But if he has to give a place to all of his friends, BAR will need five or six cars on the grid next year."

"Rumours are going mad and it seemed that at one race they come to me to ask me, at the other they just fell back a little bit. It's just going up and down. I think in Brazil they wish to see a change, so that's why they keep on saying it.

The first news of the BAR Honda deal came from Brazilian compatriot Nelson Piquet, although Barrichello claims he has not spoken to the 1987 Honda powered F1 world champion, pointedly commenting "wouldn't it be better if he followed his son in GP2, who by the way doesn't seem to be doing too well?"