Honda Racing confirm get-out clause was covered

By Phil Huff (10/08/2004)
August 10 2004

Otmar Szafnauer, Honda Racing's Vice President, has spoken about the 'get-out' clause that Jenson Button's management are relying on, confirming that it was covered in full.

Essentially Sport, Button's management company, had stated that they can move their driver to Williams due to a clause regarding Honda's engine supply. However, Mr Szafnauer is clear that John Byfield, Jenson's personal manager ant Essentially Sport, was given the assurance required.

"We were shocked and surprised," Szafnauer told the Daily Telegraph. "We gave Jenson's management all the reassurance they had asked for. When we asked if the answers provided were what he was looking for, they answered yes. We told him that we were committed to providing engines for BAR and no other team. And they said that was what they wanted to hear. Two weeks later, on July 23, we announced the new deal with the team."

"We respect Jenson for his talent," he continued. "We have a great relationship with him. That is why we thought we had a basis from which to go forward."