Honda signs off on preseason testing

Honda's Formula One team signed off a final, private preseason test, at Jerez del la Frontera, Spain, without a mention of lap times.

Consistently among the slowest performers in previous winter tests, the Japanese factory team put drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello as well as test driver Alex Wurz through race simulations, setup work and other evaluation runs to test new mechanical and aerodynamic parts on the RA108.

Button proclaimed the new bits represent "a step up" in performance. "We are realistic about our expectations for the first few races and know that we still have a long way to go," Button said.

Barrichello also called the team's effort a move in the right direction. "We have improved the car and I feel comfortable that we are well prepared for the start of the season," he said.

Wurz said aero upgrades improved tire use capability.

Testing was carried out under windy conditions at the 4.428-kilometer (2.75-mile) track.

Button and Barrichello are scheduled to fly to Tokyo for Honda Motor Sports' preseason news conference, scheduled for Monday. The Japanese company may have senior management changes prior to the first race this year.

The season begins the weekend of March 16 in Melbourne, Australia.