Button's Future Still Undecided, Says Briatore

The future of Jenson Button is likely to be sorted out by the time of the British Grand Prix in July, according to Renault boss Flavio Briatore.

The 22-year old British driver, who made his Grand Prix debut with the Williams team in the 2000 season, is on a two-year loan to Renault after leaving Williams at the end of his debut year to make way for Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya.

Briatore has revealed that Button's future is still unclear, but confirmed that Williams will have the final word.

"It is very difficult now to say what will happen in 2003 because Williams have the option on him," Briatore told BBC. "When we arrive in Silverstone then maybe we will decide something."

Meanwhile, Frank Williams insisted on Wednesday that he will not be rushed into the decision to recall Button.

"When we are ready to make decisions we will do so, but we will not be drawn towards a specific date," said Williams. "It is well documented that we have an option on Jenson's services and that we are monitoring all our options for next season."

Button struggled with the Benetton team - now Renault - last season after his promising debut with Williams, but the young Brit has raised his game this year with the much improved R202 car from the French squad.

The Renault driver has scored two fourth places in the last two races, and Briatore, who in 2001 openly said he wasn't too happy with Button's focus, has admitted he is pleased with his driver's performance so far this season.

"We have a different Jenson this year, he has changed completely, he concentrates - he is fantastic," added Briatore. "We have a very good driver and he has done a great job."