Button Already Hard at Work

Although most drivers will not be needed until the major winter testing programmes kick off at the end of November following the longest season in history, Button is already pushing as hard as he can to help his team make improvements.

After relaxing with team members in China immediately after the final race of the season, Button is delaying his holiday plans to fly to Japan for a visit to Honda's Tochigi R&D centre to get a gauge on progress with next year's V8 engine.

Following his mission with Honda, Button is then due to fly straight back to Britain to set to work at BAR's Brackley factory to try and help resolve the handling issues that blighted the team's 2005 campaign.

Although the BAR007 proved to be quick over a single qualifying lap, the car suffered tyre-graining issues on longer runs, which led to Button slipping down the order in races.

"We're not quick enough and we've got the same issues as we had in the last couple of races," said Button, looking back at a disappointing end to the year. "We've got to sit down, look at the new car, and hopefully those issues won't be in it.

"I'm going to Tochigi (Honda's base) to see what's happening with the engine, and then to the factory as soon as possible to sort out the car."

Button will have to conduct the brunt of BAR's winter work this year with future teammate Rubens Barrichello not being released from his Ferrari contract until January.