WilliamsF1 Conference Call re Jenson Button

Williams made it very clear in the early part of the discussions that they do have a secure contract with Jenson. Williams said: "The first clear and unequivocal point is that we hold a contract with Jenson.

"It appears that BAR contest this, however we are of the firm opinion, on strong legal advice, that BAR lost the opportunity to obtain Jenson and I have no doubt he will be with the Williams-BMW F1 team for 2005.

"Whatever is said about contractual details, one fact is not contestable - Jenson wishes and expects to drive for Williams-BMW in 2005 and 2006 and has made this intention clear."

The fact that the WilliamsF1 team are making their position clear in regard to this matter was forced upon them but outside factors.

Williams added: "We wished to open a dialogue privately with BAR to run through all the contractual issues, however BAR pre-empted us, went to the press, and we have been obliged to make our position clear."

Please click the phone to access a .wav file for a full audio transcript of Friday 6 August's conference call, with Frank Williams answering media questions about the Jenson Button announcement.

Sam Michael also discusses the changes been made to the FW26 and what needs to be done for 2005 to fix the problems with the car. He also discusses the driver line-up in 2005 and what Mark and Jenson can do for the team.