Davidson's move to Williams blocked by BAR

By Phil Huff (24/11/2004)
November 24 2004

Lucky Strike BAR Honda's Anthony Davidson's test with rival outfit BMW Williams has been blocked, after Williams would not agree with conditions required by BAR.

Anthony was due to have his first taste of the Williams at Jerez next month, but that plan has now been cancelled.

"Anthony is one of the team's prime assets and we have him under long-term contract," explained Geoffrey Willis.

"It is for this reason that a great deal has been invested in him over the years and whilst we are enormously keen for him to gain F1 race experience and further his career, we clearly cannot compromise the future of BAR.

"In that regard, we felt that we had reached a very good agreement with Williams whereby he could drive in 2005, but could be repatriated to BAR under certain specific circumstances for 2006.

"Williams have insisted on an unconditional arrangement which, unfortunately, is untenable for the team."

It is understood that Davidson's contract leaves him able to move to a rival Formula One team for a race drive without agreement from BAR, but is unable to automatically move for a test deal.