Button signs for BMW WilliamsF1 Team

Oxford - The BMW WilliamsF1 Team recently confirmed the signing of Jenson Button 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.

"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," said Frank Williams.

"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," commented Button on the agreement.

"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," he added.

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.

Button has become one of the most sought after Formula One drivers in a span of four short seasons. "When we signed Jenson in 2000, he was clearly a nascent talent. In the last three seasons, no-one can have any doubt tha he has now come of age and is one of the sport's leading contenders," said BMW WilliamsF1 Team's Engineering Chief Patrick Head.

"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," added Head.