Honda principal Ross Brawn has warned observers not to expect a rapid decision about the team's driver lineup for 2009.

Briton Jenson Button is almost certain to be retained, but the future of F1 veteran Rubens Barrichello is very much under a cloud, amid strengthening rumours that former double world champion Fernando Alonso could replace the Brazilian.

Alonso, who Brawn admitted at Valencia is the key to the current driver market, has said he does not plan to even think about the identity of his 2009 employer until September or October.

Brawn makes no secret of the fact that Honda is interested in signing the 27-year-old, who is "on the market".

"I think every team apart from one (McLaren) would welcome him. We are no different, but whether it happens, who knows?" he is quoted as saying by PA Sport.

He confirmed that the situation is not likely to be resolved for some time.

"It's not immediate," Brawn said of Honda's plans to make an announcement about 2009.

"When Fernando makes his decision on what he wants to do then a lot of things will slot into place."

Source: GMM