Button’s manager threatens Brawn GP

Brawn GP has been warned about Button’s situation by his manager. The team must quickly provide him with a contract that meets his demands as the new world champion, otherwise they risk losing the driver.

The news comes after speculation that Jenson Button could join McLaren next season to form a 100% English ‘dream team’ with Lewis Hamilton. With a number of seats still available, and his new status as F1 World Champion meaning he will carry the number 1 on his car next year, Button has become a highly sought-after driver.

After accepting a salary reduction this year from 5 to 3 million pounds to drive for Brawn GP, Jenson Button has expressed his intentions to remain with the team in 2010, but with a revised higher salary. For his part, Bernie Ecclestone, who is never shy about giving his opinion on all matters, finds Brawn GP’s attitude arrogant.

The sporting director of Brawn GP, Nick Fry, confirms that Button’s triumph changes the negotiations but that: « it’s a bridge we can cross. » As for Jenson Button’s manager, Richard Goddard, he states that the situation should have been resolved several weeks ago and thus avoid all this gossip.

«Brawn GP could have settled this a few weeks ago and none of this would have happened,» Goddard told BBC Sport. «We tried to reach an agreement with them. It’s clear that Jenson Button wants to stay with Brawn GP. If the team had accepted the contract, there would be no more speculation, and it won’t end until Brawn GP offers better terms (in the contract).»

Richard Goddard, with the aim of warning and pressuring Brawn GP, adds: «Many quality seats are available, so it’s now that Brawn GP needs to make us an offer.»

Regarding Rubens Barrichello, Brawn GP made him an offer at the last GP in Brazil. Nothing has been revealed about the terms of the contract and whether the Brazilian driver, who also has an option with Williams, will accept the offer.