"It's true that the Honda support is very strong and with Sato and Davidson I think we have a very good couple of drivers," said Audetto. "But to go in the middle of the grid (next year) is a big, big jump.

"I think we can achieve that in 2008, when the regulations really change...I think that 2008 will be the year where Super Aguri will really show all the potential.

"The new rules will allow even the small teams to have the same technical support, chassis and aero as the top teams -- we can share the same car -- and then what will count is the drivers, the racing team, the strategy," he added.

"Potentially a small team with a very good car...with good drivers and strategy and a little luck could eventually win a grand prix in 2008."

DRIVER CHOICE

Super Aguri started out as an all-Japanese effort to ensure that Sato remained in Formula One after Honda faced a backlash at home for dropping him.

The line-up of Sato and rookie Yuji Ide vanished when the latter was stripped of his super-licence and France's Franck Montagny was drafted in.

Japan's Sakon Yamamoto took over towards the end of the season but Davidson, a long-standing Honda test driver, offers far more experience as well as a broader appeal.

"Super Aguri wants also to be more international in the future to attract more international sponsors," said Audetto.

"Sato gave Aguri Suzuki the opportunity to have the support from Honda to create a team and to allow Sato to remain in Formula One. But Super Aguri must be competitive and successful."

Next season will tell just how competitive.

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