Experts pessimistic in Honda quit wake

(GMM) A heightened sense of pessimism has enveloped the world of formula one following Honda's decision to withdraw.

Many experts predict the Japanese manufacturer could be just the first in pitlane to fold.

"A large portion of the teams face the question of survival," ousted Force India team boss Colin Kolles told the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag.

Niki Lauda, former triple world champion, says there is a danger other struggling manufacturers could follow Honda.

"It is often the case that the first thrown snowball triggers an avalanche," he told Sport Bild.

Former F1 driver and now VW motor racing representative Hans-Joachim Stuck believes even the most successful teams will now be reassessing their commitment.

"I can well imagine a chief executive like (Mercedes') Dieter Zetsche thinking 'We have just become world champion, what more can we do?'" said Stuck.

Gerhard Berger, meanwhile, pulled his 50 per cent share out of Toro Rosso recently, and doubts Honda will find a credible buyer.

"I know just how difficult it is nowadays to find sponsors. Finding someone to buy a whole team? Forget it," said the Austrian.