Rubens Barrichello looks poised to earn himself a new contract for next season following his stunning performance in the British Grand Prix.
With David Coulthard due to retire at the end of the season, the Brazilian would become the oldest driver in Formula One at the age of 36 if Honda retain his services for another season.
Barrichello certainly appeared on his way out after failing to score a point for 22 races, but he has found a new lease of life since finishing sixth in Monaco at the end of May.
Seventh place followed in Canada before he underlined the value of experience with his first podium for three years at Silverstone by taking third behind race-winner Lewis Hamilton.
Barrichello now has 11 points to his name, overshadowing team-mate Jenson Button, and furthering his prospect of extending his current F1 record of 259 grand prix starts.
"I think Rubens has done a superb job all year," expressed Honda chief executive Nick Fry.
"Ross Brawn joining us (as team principal) has helped Rubens a lot, and he has a lot of confidence.
"He's not only driven well, but he's been a really happy person, which is great to see, and his fitness is very good.
"As for next year, at the end of the day we'll choose the best two drivers."
But when asked as to the likelihood of Barrichello being retained, Fry replied: "Obviously this race is very positive for Rubens."
For his part, Barrichello is naturally eager to prolong his racing career, believing he is driving as well now as at any time since he started out in 1993.
"The team know - maybe those outside don't - but I have this great feeling," said Barrichello.
"It's like I'm young, I'm smiling at problems, I'm working more. I feel that.
"I just love the sport, love the speed, and I cannot live without that.
"It's not that I want to prove to Ross I'm physically capable because he knows I have the speed and I want to keep on racing.
"But I've never lost the belief I have in me, and I've no intention of stopping.
"I will only stop if I have nowhere else to go, but my intention is to stay with Honda.
"I don't have a contract just yet, but I feel young. I love racing more than I ever did.
"The day I find I'm actually slower than in my first race at Kyalami (South Africa) is the day I will stop.
"Right now, I'm just feeling I'm faster than that day."
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