Jenson Button leaves BAR for Williams

By Phil Huff (05/08/2005)
August 6 2004

In a dramatic move set to send shock waves throughout the world of Formula One, Jenson Button is to leave Lucky Strike BAR Honda to return to the outfit that gave him his break in F1, BMW Williams F1.

While no statement has been forthcoming from BAR, the Williams team have confirmed the news, with Frank Williams saying "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."

Jenson Button seems pleased with the opportunity of returning to Williams, saying "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."

Jenson joined Williams back in 2000, just days after turning 20. He put in a number of impressive performances but failed to land a drive with the team in 2001, partly due to Williams having an impressive number of drivers under contract. Williams kept a close hold on Button's future, retaining some rights over him until the end of this year.

It's widely assumed that, performance clauses allowing, Jenson was in a position to demand a seat at Williams.

"When we signed Jenson in 2000, he was clearly a nascent talent," enthused the normally reticent Patrick Head. "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."