Barrichello to miss first Honda test

(GMM) Rubens Barrichello's fading chances of keeping his Honda seat for 2009 have receded yet further.

The Japanese team has announced a full complement of four drivers for its first test of the 2009 post-season in Barcelona next week — and the most experienced racer in grand prix history will not be among them.

The respective race and test regulars Jenson Button and Alex Wurz will be running in Spain, Honda announced, as will GP2 drivers Bruno Senna and Lucas di Grassi, who are in the running to take Barrichello's place next year.

Button and Wurz will be at the wheel of a modified 2008 car, featuring slick tires and some 2009 components, while Senna and di Grassi complete their shootout in a regular RA108.

Senna and di Grassi, both Brazilians, will each test for one and a half days.