By Phil Huff (10/01/2004)
January 10 2004

Jenson Button opened the Autosport International show this morning, and the Lucky Strike BAR Honda driver took the time to chat with the crowds on the Autosport stage, stating his confidence for the forthcoming season. "I think things could be very close this season between Ferrari, Williams and McLaren," said the man from Frome. "It's going to be a very close season – and BAR is going to be pushing them as well. You might not believe me, but we are going to be. You never know until the first race, but we're very positive that we're going to be challenging for race wins."

Jenson then stated his personal aims, saying "Winning races is my main aim. For me, winning the world championship is the main thing. It's not going to happen this year – well, it's very unlikely. But we can get close to that. For me, second or fifth or seventh in the championship doesn't make much difference. It's the team that I'm thinking about more than anything else. Third in the championship would be mega, and I do think it's possible."

Talking of the 2004 car, which Geoffrey Willis described yesterday as a sexy lady, Jenson said "I only heard that today but it's great, isn't it? Normally when cars look good they're very fast. There are a few exceptions – like probably the Williams.

"Actually, I went skiing last week, and you see that sort of nose quite often on the snowploughs out there," he continued. "I think maybe they spent some time out in Whistler."