Briatore pays tribute to Button

Briatore's relationship with Button went through a very rocky patch last year when the Italian claimed that the young driver was not as committed as he should be. But this year, Briatore's view of Button appeared to improve, inspite of the decision to drop him for 2003.

"I am sorry to see Jenson go, as he has done a superb job for us this season," said Briatore. "I have no doubt he has a brilliant future ahead of him in Formula 1. On behalf of the whole team I would like to thank him for the commitment he has shown so far and, I am sure, will continue to show until the end of the season."

But at the same time, Briatore made it clear that he felt promoting Alonso was the best decision for Renault. "This season we have been lucky to have three of the best current F1 drivers in the team," he said. "Unfortunately we cannot keep all of them and a decision had to be taken. Fernando has done an excellent job behind the scenes, impressing the team. He is ready to drive next year."

Renault Sport president Patrick Faure said that Button's long-term contract with Williams was a major reason why the Briton had to take second place to Alonso.

While praising Button for his driving this year, he said: "Renault's long-term strategy is based on investing in drivers who can guarantee stability and continuity to the team as it grows in competitiveness. While Jenson is contracted to another team, Fernando is part of the Renault Driver Development programme.

"We feel that his performance this year as our test driver has been so promising that his great potential needs to be exploited straight away."