OCTOBER 15, 2000

Button thanks BMW-Williams team for dream debut season

BRITON Jenson Button has thanked the BMW-Williams team for handing him his chance in Formula One and has said that he is already looking forward to returning.

Button will depart the Grove-based team after just one season and will join Benetton on a two-year loan deal.

But he is already looking forward to returning to the team, who is contracted to on a long-term deal, after his two-year stay with Benetton.

"My debut season will stay with me forever and I cannot thank the BMW-Williams season enough for the work, support and commitment that they have demonstrated all season," Button said.

"The workforce at the team has done a tremendous job on the chassis and after thirteen-year absence from Formula One, BMW's return this season has been nothing short of admirable.

"I have little doubt in the team's ability to be a frontrunner and I am looking forward to being an integral part of that success over the long term."