Williams, Button Disappointed with CRB Ruling

Team principal Frank Williams said he was disappointed by the CRB ruling against his team in the battle with BAR over Jenson Button.

The Contracts Recognitions Board ruled that Button is legally bound to BAR for the 2005 season, despite Williams claiming earlier this year the Briton had signed a contract with them.

Williams confirmed that they would not seek to challenge the judgement under any other legal jurisdiction.

"Naturally we are disappointed with the CRB's conclusion," said Williams. "We took the view that Jenson was a driver worth challenging for, and based on strong legal advice, we have no regrets about making a bid for his services.

"The CRB accepted a significant number of the BMW WilliamsF1 Team's arguments, but nevertheless found against us. We do not believe any further legal action in relation to this matter to be in the broader interests of the sport.

"In spite of the CRB's conclusion, which relates to 2005, we will maintain our close relationship with Jenson for 2006."

Button, who will finish third in this year's Championship after scoring 10 podiums, was also disappointed with the result and said he was hoping to drive for Williams in the future.

"Naturally I am disappointed by the ruling, but as a matter of principle, I firmly believe in standing by the decision the CRB have reached today," said Button. "BAR have been extremely professional at the race track during this process, and I expect this to continue. I look forward to joining the Williams team in the future."

Williams, who now have only Mark Webber signed as a racing driver for next season, said they will make a further announcement concerning their 2005 driver line-up in due course.