06/08/2004
NEWS STORY
Talking on BBC Breakfast News this morning, BAR boss David Richards made it clear that there is a long haul ahead regarding the services of Jenson Button, and that as far as the Brackley outfit is concerned, it has a contract.
"We have a contract in place, and it's a valid contract," he said. "Jenson's been with us for the last couple of years, having started with us when he was basically in the doldrums, and has now become a key member of our team. We have an agreement in place for next year."
Asked if the issue was now heading to the law courts, Richards replied: "There are quicker mechanisms for resolving this. The fundamental issue is to get to the root of the problem. We've had a fantastic working relationship - the results, which are there for everyone to see - the relationship with the press, the whole thing is seen as being phenomenal from Jenson's side.
"It's rather strange that we haven't heard from Jenson at all on this matter, despite efforts by Geoff (Willis) and myself to contact him. We've yet to hear from the man himself."
It was then revealed that Button had been in touch with the BBC. The Englishman is alleged to have said that he has a better chance of winning the World Championship with WilliamsF1 than with BAR.
"Let him discuss that with the team," said Richards. "If he's got an issue, and wants an explanation from us, then we're quite happy to sit down and talk, that's the normal way that one does things."
Asked if BAR "missed the boat" in taking up its option with Button, Richards replied: "Not in the slightest. We'd served an effective option on him, and his management are trying to wriggle (out of it) on a technicality. And it is quite a frivolous technicality as well."
Asked if this was principally a dispute with Button's management (Essentially Sport), rather than WilliamsF1, Richards said: "With Button's management principally yes."