6th November - Mugen-Honda complete Formula One pullout.

The last time we will see this on an F1 car

Mugen-Honda has confirmed its total pull-out from Formula 1 – ending speculation that the Japanese company’s V10s could be re-badged and supplied to Minardi for the 2001 season.

Company President Hirotoshi Honda said: “Regrettably, we have decided to stop our F1 activity at the end of the season.”
He added, somewhat cryptically: “The condition is still not cleared, as there are a million problems.” This is believed to refer to the transfer of Mugen’s UK-based (Honda owned) infrastructure and several of its key race staff to the works Honda effort, which will supply engines to both Jordan and BAR next year.

“We are going to continue to compete and show our good performances at other racing categories, so your unchanged support will be much appreciated,” said Honda to the press.

Mugen, which will continue as an engine-supplier in the Formula Nippon series, won four Grands Prix (three with Jordan) and 12 other podiums (8 with Jordan) during its nine-year F1 involvement.