Buttongate II

**^^v** · 14-09-2005 01:11 AM

thought i'd make a thread bout this.. since its the biggest talking point when it comes to driver transfers for 06

Team turn down Honda-backed deal

(GMM) Jenson Button's attempt to stay at BAR next season has reportedly taken a grim knock.

Britain's 'Mirror' tabloid claims that Sir Frank Williams, with Button's signature on a cast-iron 2006 contract, has turned down a Honda-funded $22m buyout offer.

The daily newspaper claims that $22 million would have been the 'biggest price tag ever put on a British driver'.

BAR boss Nick Fry, though, appeared undeterred when he reported that 'lots of dialogue' between the 25-year-old's management and Grove based Williams rattles on.

He told PA Sport: ''If there is dialogue there is hope but there is nothing concrete at the moment.

''From our point of view we'll just sit and wait. Jenson is the one we'd like to have in the car and we've said we'll wait until the end of the season or beyond if necessary.''

Written: Tue, 13 Sep 2005 11:44:43

f1 central

**IRI** · 14-09-2005 09:41 AM

I really hope BAR manage to keep him, he's really coming into his own lately...

**J-MuN** · 14-09-2005 11:39 AM

Yeah definitely agree. He's an awesome driver and has definite potential.

**Hondavirgin** · 14-09-2005 11:46 AM

I bet he hopes he stays at BAR too given Williams' performance this season.

I got a problem with his chopping and changing though, seems too mercenary, i mean, this time last season he was fighting tooth and nail to get to Williams and leave BAR, now he's fighting tooth and nail to stay at BAR. Gotta impact on the team loyalty feel........

**^^v** · 14-09-2005 12:27 PM

true that about team loyalty...
but i guess he wants to go where the grass is greener...
this time last year he didnt know that Honda was gonna buy a 45% share in BAR.... if he knew.. he wouldnt have signed with williams...
he says that was the main turning point in his decision...

**LUD02C** · 14-09-2005 06:27 PM

I think this is going to hurt his career.
With him not being loyal to a decision he makes, makes it look like he would jump ship half way through if it was sinking.

I personally think Williams might have a decent car next year, the Cosworth V8 is one strong, reliable and fast engine.
Then again, the Honda is a tad better in my eyes.

Should be interesting to see how it folds out, is Frank wanting more money and just holding off for now?
I think Jenson will be in a Williams next year and both Williams drivers will be scoring points.

**Hondavirgin** · 14-09-2005 06:44 PM

I think BAR are more likely to have a better car, just coz they have the continuity, whereas Williams are dealing with a new engine and new engine supplier.

**pornstar** · 14-09-2005 07:15 PM

id like to see heidfeld at bar

**^^v** · 14-09-2005 07:33 PM

speaking of Nick.. last paragraph in the article below says he mite be out for the season...

Ecclestone recommends Rosberg for Williams

(GMM) The wider implications of the 'Buttongate II' saga continue to rumble on in the F1 paddock.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has now chimed in on the dispute, advising Sir Frank Williams to forget about the 25-year-old Brit and instead bring a promising young rookie onto the grand prix scene.

''I have told Frank that he should give Nico Rosberg a go,'' 74-year-old Bernie, referring to the young GP2 title challenger and German son of 1982 world champion Keke, ''and forget about a driver who doesn't want to drive.''

No doubt, Button and his management will be pleased to hear Ecclestone's comments, as it indicates support for their attempts to wiggle out of the signed-and-sealed 2006 agreement and remain at BAR-Honda.

Interestingly, Rosberg, 20, is linked with Williams 'sub' Antonio Pizzonia's Brazil seat, after it emerged that regular Nick Heidfeld may not race again for the team this year.

Written: Mon, 12 Sep 2005 11:12:51

**LUD02C** · 15-09-2005 03:16 PM

His dad was a great driver, and I bet Nico is just as good.
I'd put him in, only downfall is Button is coming into his prime.

**Vivski** · 18-09-2005 04:12 PM

I'd take Button, I'd show him the new car, say "look b!tch, this is the best car and the best team, you're the best driver and we're gonna win".

Williams will have a strong package next season if Bridgestone picks up their game or FIA change the rules so Michelin have to change the design of their tyres so that Ferrari have a change. It's all about aero and tyres for Williams. The engine will be good, the gearbox will be good, all the mechanical stuff will be good, it's just a matter of getting the aero right and everything else will follow.

I reckon Webber - Button would make a great team. Both are great drivers and have some experience to make a contribution.
Having said that, as BAR, I'd also choose Button. 'Cos Button - Barichello would be just as good a team and the Honda will be just as good.