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STICKING IT OUT IN F1: REUTERS' Alan Baldwin reports Toyota will be the "only remaining Japanese manufacturer on the [F1] starting grid" this season after the departures of Honda and Super Aguri. But due to the operating loss expected this year, Toyota's "continued presence has come under scrutiny." Toyota Racing President John Howett said that his team "has to demonstrate to the Toyota board that the money was well spent." Howett: "Provided Formula One remains a sensible sport to be involved in ... I think we have the possibility with good results to remain in Formula One for the forseeable future" (REUTERS, 1/15).

MERCEDES COULD TAKE HONDA'S TEAM: In Manchester, Alan Henry reported Mercedes-Benz indicated that it "could be in a position to supply engines to the former Honda [F1] team in the event of a takeover" of the team "leaving it on a sound financial footing." Honda last month said that it "would close the team" if a seller could not be found (GUARDIAN.co.uk, 1/13). Mercedes Motorsport VP Norbert Haug: "If there is a feasible solution with an investor for that team, we would be prepared to discuss it" (AUTOSPORT.com, 1/13).

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