JB defiant after BAR talks

BAR had previously issued an ultimatum to Button's management company requiring him to attend a face-to-face meeting with BAR's management, by close of business on Monday, or face immediate action to enforce BAR's contract with him. Richards insists that Button will not join Williams and has claimed that the Briton's contract with BAR for 2005 is currently with the Contracts Recognition Board (CRB) in Switzerland, who have told Richards that BAR's contract with Button is valid.

"Given the circumstances, the meeting was constructive," said Button. "David is now in no doubt of my intention to move to BMW Williams in 2005. My contractual position allows for this and I have also clarified that I am not moving for money.

"My motivation is straightforward determination to win a world championship, determination which I am sure he (Richards) as a competitive person well understands. Naturally, the main element of disagreement is whether these ambitions would be better served by BMW Williams or BAR."

Button has criticised BAR's handling of negotiations for 2005 with his management company, Essentially Sport: "They were not permitted to hold private contractual discussions with BAR. I do not feel it was constructive for BAR to leak details of these discussions. I have worked hard and contributed seven podiums and 61 of the team's 76 points this season.

"Drivers are changing teams up and down the paddock at the moment - an accepted and fundamental element of our sport - and I wish that my return to Williams would have been less acrimonious in light of the contribution I have made to BAR this season."

Button has promised to remain committed to BAR, despite the crisis which is bound to create tension within the camp. Particularly on the eve of what many believe is BAR's best chance for victory this year at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

"Now that I have met with David and we have both had the opportunity to express our points of view," he said, "the most important matter is that the hard work and commitment to racing from everybody in Brackley is repaid with strong results for the remainder of the season, which I have every intention of doing."