Jenson Button is poised to sign a three-year extension to his Honda contract, ITV Sport understands.
Honda Racing CEO Nick Fry told ITV Sport's Ted Kravitz that the team was confident of securing Button's services for the long-term, and that he was a vital part of Honda's Formula 1 future.
"Our relationship with Jenson and his management is absolutely first class," Fry said.
"He's really been an important part of pulling the team of people that we've now got together.
"Obviously he's looking towards the future as well, and our objective is obviously to make him world champion.
"Jenson and the Honda team really are locked solid together."
Button has remained loyal to Honda despite the team's desperately disappointing 2007 season, but it was thought that this patience might be tested if Honda continued to struggle for points this year.
Fry said Button's perseverance and performances in adversity were key reasons why the team was so keen to hang on to him.
"He has really improved year after year, and even though last year was a difficult year for us, I think as a driver and an individual he continued to develop," he said.
"He's certainly someone we want on our side."
The team boss added that while he was certain that Button would extend his contract, the deal would not be finalised immediately.
"I think later this year," he replied when asked about the likely timescale for the agreement.
"There's no big hurry - we've got a great relationship with each other and we can take our time."
Honda has made a better than expected start to 2008 - with upgrades introduced late in testing helping the team to 10th and 12th on the Melbourne grid.
With ex-Ferrari genius Ross Brawn now installed at the team, Honda's future prospects are also considered much brighter.