Button: I'm after bigger fish than Juan!

Button and 1999 CART champion Montoya went head-to-head for the first time today (Tuesday) during testing at the Jerez circuit in Spain. The Englishman posted a best lap of 1m24.968s, with Colombian Montoya stopping the clocks at 1m25.364s in his first run in an F1 car since 1998.

Speaking to autosport.com after his first day on duty with Benetton, Button said: "I think Juan has done a good job today, but I'm not looking just to beat him next year - I want to beat Michael Schumacher and Mika Hakkinen.

"It's difficult to say what my expectations are for next year until I drive the new car, but this will be my second year of F1 - I know the circuits, I've got the experience, so there's no excuses now.

"Winning the world championship may not be a realistic target for next year," he admitted, "but I'm confident this team can do a good job."

Button played down the media hype over his 'showdown' with the Colombian, stressing that the Jerez test was about getting used to working with Benetton and learning the characteristics of the Michelin tyres the team will use in 2001, rather than going for times.

"The day went well and it seemed to go very quickly," he said. "I'm just getting used to the car, making some adjustments and working on the tyres. It's been a nice change and they're a bunch of friendly, easy-going people - even when you go off, like I did twice today...

"At one point I came out on to the circuit right behind Juan. We did one lap together, which would have made a great picture, but he came into the pits next time around. I think he was scared!" quipped the 20-year-old.

Testing continues at Jerez tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday.

To see more pictures from the Jerez F1 test, click into Autosport.com's race gallery HERE.