Middle East branding for Richards’ F1 team

Dave Richards

(GMM) A third and most likely option for the branding of a David Richards-headed formula one team has emerged.

We reported recently that the former Benetton and BAR boss was likely to launch his prospective budget-capped team in 2010 as either Prodrive or Aston Martin.

But as he travels to the Middle East for talks with investors, the 56-year-old admits that identifying his team with the region is actually the front-running option.

"I am looking seriously at that … option, that's why I'm here," he is quoted as saying by the Abu Dhabi newspaper The National.

With Bahrain and Abu Dhabi now well represented in formula one, Richards told the newspaper he is leaning towards parts of the Gulf yet untapped by the sport.

"There are discussions to be held here in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) and elsewhere," he revealed.

"There is a tremendous amount of interest in what we are doing. Two individuals have approached me wanting to be part of this project."

He said part of the F1 deal would be to set up a "composite plant" in the region, while it is expected the team's main base will be in Europe.

Richards said his role will be low-profile, with a young team principal to be nominated. He also indicated that he will be taking up the option of a low-cost Cosworth engine deal.

"They have introduced an engine for next year and that might be a viable alternative to going with one of the established engines out there today," he said.