Jenson Button is desperate to end the season on a high and has targeted a strong qualifying showing as the key to his hopes in next weekend’s United States Grand Prix.
The driver suffered a rare defeat by BAR team-mate Jacques Villeneuve last time out at Monza, with the Canadian finishing sixth as Button retired.
But Button is determined to bounce back from that disappointment and, with BAR desperately fighting for fifth in the constructors’ championship, he wants to add to his 12 points so far this season.
He said: “In terms of my hopes for this year’s US Grand Prix, I am completely focused on repeating the strong qualifying performance which saw me line up seventh in Italy, and I hope to translate it into a really positive race result.
“The team has worked so hard this year and I am determined to push as hard as possible for good results in America and Japan to round off the season.”
Button is a fan of Formula One’s latest home in the United States, with next weekend’s event being the fourth at Indianapolis since the sport ended its brief exile from America.
Although Button and his rivals will only use turn one of the famous banked oval, the history and atmosphere at Indianapolis have proved a hit with drivers.
Button said: “I like the track, although it’s quite tight and twisty on the infield section and I prefer high-speed circuits.
“Having said that, the banking section is fun to drive and the straight is very quick. We spend a long time, more than 20 seconds, absolutely flat out.
“I have enjoyed driving at Indianapolis in the past and am looking forward to returning this year, especially as we are more competitive, and I hope to add further championship points to our total.
“I like visiting America and we always get a great reception at Indy – the atmosphere in the town is great and the city seems to be really hooked on racing. It’s a great place for Formula One to visit and certainly one of the most famous venues.”