Button retains BAR team backing

BAR have high hopes for the new season after an impressive 2004

Jenson Button insists there are no feelings of resentment from his BAR team following his attempted move to Williams last year.

"As soon as I had made the decision to stay, I went to the BAR factory as soon as I could to explain things to them," he told Radio Five Live's Sportsweek.

"Things have been good since then. They like the fact that I am pushing hard and looking forward to my first win."

The new smaller and lighter BAR car was launched in Barcelona on Sunday.

The BAR Honda 007 incorporates aerodynamic changes to comply with the new rules for 2005.

And Honda has redesigned the engine to cope with the fact it will now have to last two races.

We need to show we're a consistent top team and again can challenge McLaren and Ferrari for podiums Jenson Button

Both Button and team-mate Takumo Sato hope the new car will enable them to challenge Ferrari's dominance.

BAR finished second behind Ferrari in the constructors' standings last season, having been fifth in 2003.

Button claimed four second places in San Marino, Germany, Monaco and China to finish third in the drivers' championship.

"The car certainly looks different to last year's, but it is not only looks that matter. I think it has a lot of depth as well," said Button.

"I am looking forward to the start of the season and getting back to racing.

"We need to show that we are a consistent top team and again can challenge McLaren and Ferrari for podiums.

"Winter testing has been very encouraging. The car and the engine have both shown good reliability and we have also made progress with our tyres."

BAR chief executive officer Nick Fry said: "Our 2004 performance was very pleasing but winning a race has to be the first step in our three-year plan to win the World Championship."