Ex-BAR chief Richards returns to F1

Former BAR boss David Richards has confirmed he intends to return to Formula One by entering the 2008 championship.

Richards, who masterminded BAR’s most successful period, has entered the 2008 championship with his Prodrive organisation, who also run Subaru’s world rally team and Aston Martin’s sportscar squad.

Prodrive have been widely expected to attempt a move back into Formula One and recently unveiled plans to build a new factory, capable of running a grand prix team.

Richards said: “Formula One is still regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport and therefore a natural next step for Prodrive.

“While we may be a very large company in motorsport terms, we are very much a minnow in comparison to the vehicle manufacturers who currently dominate the sport.

“However, on the basis of the new regulations being proposed by [world governing body] the FIA, we believe the time is now right for us to take this next step.”