Brawn reignites Alonso interest

Honda boss Ross Brawn has reignited speculation that he is targeting Renault's double world champion Fernando Alonso for the 2009 season.

The team are reported to be considering offering the Spaniard a short-term deal to partner Britain's Jenson Button.

Brawn told Autosport: "Fernando is one of the top drivers in Formula One and I think every team apart from one would welcome him.

"We are no different, but whether it happens, who knows?"

Honda's current drivers Button and Rubens Barrichello are both out of contract at the end of the season.

Brawn is in the midst of negotiations with them but is reported to be tempted to make a move for Alonso to capitalise on the planned technical advancements on the 2009 car.

Next season's Honda is the first car on which the former Ferrari technical director has completely led the development since joining the team in November 2007.

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"Alonso has to stay at Renault until Ferrari has a seat for him or until BMW, Toyota emerge as a credible title contender"
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Alonso is believed to have a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave for 2009 but he has been widely linked with a move to Ferrari, which would mean he may be unwilling to sign a long-term contract.

"I think any team would want to have a longer term deal - any driver for one year is difficult," added Brawn.

"But if you have one-year and do well, then it becomes two or three years.

"I am sure the McLaren deal was more than a one-year deal and that didn't last beyond a year."

Alonso returned to Renault, with whom he won his world titles in 2005 and 2006, after a tumultuous season at McLaren.

But the 27-year-old has struggled in a uncompetitive car with two fourth-place finishes his best results of the season.

In contrast, Barrichello claimed a podium at the British Grand Prix to eclipse team-mate Button's performances this season, who only has three points to his name.

Despite disappointing performances this season, Brawn suggested last month that he would not drastically alter his driver line-up.

He told BBC Sport: "The likelihood is the same two helmets will be in our 2009 cars."

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