Virgin-Manor deal set for Abu Dhabi launch

(GMM) After appearing trackside at Monza, Sir Richard Branson's next stop on the formula one calendar will be the Abu Dhabi finale.

It is there that the British billionaire is expected to announce a major tie-up with the new Manor team, in which the outfit could be rebranded 'Virgin F1' for the 2010 season and beyond.

Virgin entered F1 as Brawn's most visible sponsor this year, but the British team's unexpected success meant Branson was not prepared to pay the higher rate for a ramped up collaboration into the future.

Brawn GP has already confirmed that Virgin is not involved in the team's plans beyond November's Abu Dhabi season finale.