Briatore: Button's seat is safe

At the launch of the R202 yesterday, the Italian gave Button a public vote of confidence and backed his ability to bounce back after a difficult second season in F1.

"Jenson is finishing the season with us, there's no reason to have another driver in his place," said Briatore. "I like him. I believe he has done everything possible to concentrate on his job and we are very happy."

Button was criticised for over-indulging in a playboy lifestyle last year, and suffered badly in comparison to team-mate Giancarlo Fisichella. But he has recently split with his management team of David Robertson and Harold Huysman, and Briatore feels that he is now more focused on his driving.

"Last year he believed all the hype and he thought he was perfect, but he has a lot to learn," he said. "I believe he is a different guy now. I don't want to destroy any driver. I want to help Jenson but Jenson needs shaking. I have shaken him up, especially at the end of last year. Jenson is driving for us all season, this is quite simple."

Button drove the new car for the first time this morning at Barcelona. Visit autosport.com for the latest testing news.