 In
what could only be descried as a totally unexpected move the BMW WilliamsF1
team announced that former WilliamsF1 driver Jenson Button was to return to
the team in 2005.
Button was previously with the WilliamsF1 team in 2000 but he was replaced
by Juan Pablo Montoya. Since this time Button has driven for both Renault
and BAR. Button will join Mark Webber, who signed with WilliamsF1 last week.
the combination of Button and Webber certainly gives the WilliamsF1 a very
strong driver line-up for 2005.
BMW WilliamsF1 Press Release
The BMW WilliamsF1 Team today
confirmed that Jenson Button has signed for the team for the 2005 season and
beyond. The signing reflects a strong and long-term relationship between
Jenson Button and the team and completes the team’s driver line-up into the
medium term, following the recent signing of Mark Webber.
Frank Williams said, “There has been a long-term relationship between the
BMW WilliamsF1 Team and Jenson, indeed his Formula One career started with
the team in 2000. We have maintained that relationship until the present
day, and I am delighted that one of the most talented drivers in Formula One
has accepted the opportunity to return to the team.”
For his part, Jenson commented on the agreement that, “I am very pleased
that I had the option to re-join the BMW WilliamsF1 Team where my Formula
One career started. For the meantime, the 2004 season has my full focus and
attention. Beyond this, I have every confidence that the massive investment
in resources and the depth of talent at WilliamsF1 and BMW provides the best
platform for my future ambitions to be a World Champion.”
Button joined the BMW WilliamsF1 Team just after his 20th birthday from
British Formula 3, and validated Frank Williams’ confidence in his talents
by rocking the established order with a string of notable achievements in
his debut season. Jenson went on to pursue his Formula One career with
Benetton Renault, and more latterly, BAR.
In the space of four short seasons, Jenson has become one of the most sought
after Formula One drivers as the team’s Director of Engineering, Patrick
Head, reflected, “When we signed Jenson in 2000, he was clearly a nascent
talent. In the last three seasons, no-one can have any doubt that he has now
come of age and is one of the sport’s leading contenders. In many ways, the
challenge is now ours to meet his capabilities, and I have every confidence
that the intense investment and re-organisation we have undertaken this
year, married with a
strong driver pairing, will see a resurgent BMW WilliamsF1 Team next
season.”
BMW’s Director of Motorsport, Mario Theissen, also welcomed the
announcement. “Jenson is one of the very best drivers in the paddock, and
BMW is delighted that he has trusted our ambition and determination to win
World Championships. I have every confidence he will make a significant
contribution to our future success.” |
