Button stays at BAR for 2005

The BAR team had disputed a contract that Button had entered into with the WilliamsF1 team, claiming that the BAR had a valid contract with Button for 2005. The WilliamsF1 team had signed Button for two years commencing in 2005. With this decision the earliest that Button can now hope to return to the WilliamsF1 team will be in 2006.

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team issued the following statement regarding the CRB decision.

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team today acknowledged the verdict delivered by the Contract Recognitions Board (CRB) that Jenson Button is legally bound to BAR for the 2005 season.

The team also confirmed that it would not seek to challenge the judgement under any other legal jurisdiction.

In response to the verdict, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team Principal Frank Williams said, “Naturally we are disappointed with the CRB’s conclusion. We took the view that Jenson was a driver worth challenging for, and based on strong legal advice, we have no regrets about making a bid for his services. The CRB accepted a significant number of the BMW WilliamsF1 Team’s arguments, but nevertheless found against us. We do not believe any further legal action in relation to this matter to be in the broader interests of the sport. In spite of the CRB’s conclusion, which relates to 2005, we will maintain our close relationship with Jenson for 2006.”

Jenson Button commented, “Naturally I am disappointed by the ruling, but as a matter of principle, I firmly believe in standing by the decision the CRB have reached today. BAR have been extremely professional at the race track during this process, and I expect this to continue. I look forward to joining the BMW WilliamsF1 Team in the future.”

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team will make a further announcement concerning its 2005 driver line-up in due course.

As for the BAR team their response to the decision was favourable. In a statement for the BAR team they said: "BAR has expressed delight at the confirmation today from the Contracts Recognition Board that BAR's contract with Jenson Button is the only valid contract for 2005.

"Jenson has played a crucial role in BAR's success over the past two seasons, particularly this year when BAR is hopeful of finishing second in the 2004 Constructors' Championship."

For the WilliamsF1 team it now comes down to making a decision as to who will take the place of Button in 2005.