As both BAR and WilliamsF1 falter in 2005 - for different reasons - there has been speculation over the future of English hopeful, Jenson Button.

Following the disaster that was Button-gate in 2004, which saw the Brackley outfit retain Button's services for 2005, it was common knowledge that a clause in his contract could see him return to WilliamsF1 - the team which brought him into F1 - for 2006.

Under the terms of his contract with BAR, should Button have failed to score 75% of the World Championship leader's points tally, by the end of August, WilliamsF1 would have first call on his services for 2006, no ifs or buts.

Speaking to Alan Henry of The Guardian, Frank Williams has confirmed this.

"It's been well explained," said Williams. "If BAR meet the option, they must take him. If they fail, then he lands in our lap."

The current World Championship leader is Fernando Alonso, who has 69 points. Assuming the Spaniard doesn't add to this tally, Button, currently on 5 points, would need to score a further 46 points from 4 races.

It's understood that, contrary to media speculation, Williams' engine deal for 2006, or lack of it, would have no bearing on Button's contract for next year.