USF1 // KEN ANDERSON AND THE FATE OF HONDA'S F1 PROGRAM

Following the news that American engineer Ken Anderson intends to acquire the now dead Honda F1 team, we decided a bit of research into Honda's F1 history was in order.

In terms of Formula One, Honda's connection with the United Stated can be traced back to their earliest days in F1. During the 1965 season, Richie Ginther piloted Honda’s RA272 (pictured above) to a surprise win at the Mexican Grand Prix. In only their second year of Formula One competition, Honda had claimed their first GP win.

Honda's next F1 victory came shortly thereafter, when in 1967, John Surtees beat Jack Brabham by 0.2 seconds to win the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. A stunning victory, many thought Honda had a chance at the World Constructors' Championship for 1968. But after a disappointing start (retiring from five of the first six races), Honda removed themselves from Formula One competition at the end of the 1968 season, not to return until 2006.

Since their return, Honda has seen only limited success, finishing 4th overall in 2006, 8th in 2007 and a disappointing 9th overall in 2008. Having competed in 99 Grand Prix's over the course of 44 years, Honda has managed to capture only three Grand Prix victories (a number that may have played a role in their recent decision to once again remove themselves from F1).

As unfortunate as it may be that Honda will no longer participate in Formula One, we cannot help but speculate on what a US based F1 team might provide for us stateside fans... (hmm, I see GP cars running the streets of Long Beach). Whether it's the return of the US Grand Prix, or simply added television coverage, as of right now, Anderson's USF1 project will not see the light of day until some time in 2010.

Be sure and stay tuned to ColdTrackDays.com, as we continue to follow Ken Anderson and the USF1 team // 02.12.2209