Richards: Davidson Favourite to Replace Button

Briton Anthony Davidson is the favourite to land the second racing seat at BAR if the team lose Jenson Button to Williams, according to David Richards.

The Contracts Recognition Board will decide next Saturday whether BAR or Williams have the right to claim Button for next year.

Williams announced a contract with Button, but the move was left in jeopardy after BAR claimed they had a contract with the Briton to continue with them beyond the end of this season.

BAR's team principal Richards said that if the Honda-powered team lose the case, the team's third driver Davidson is the most likely replacement.

"In a few days will have the final decision," Richards told Italy's Autosprint magazine. "We've presented all our paperwork and explained our reasons. I'm confident because I think we are right.

"If our claims are successful we'll carry on with Button and [Takuma] Sato, otherwise in place of Jenson I really think that I'll go with Anthony Davidson as race driver. During the Friday tests he's always shown terrific potential."

Davidson only drives on Fridays ahead of each Grand Prix, but the Briton has impressed with his speed.