By Phil Huff (19/11/2004)
November 19 2004

David Richards has been forced out of Lucky Strike BAR Honda, despite leading the team to second place in the Formula One Constructors Championship, losing out only to Ferrari. Richards insisted that the ending of the contract between BAR and Prodrive, the company Richards founded in 1984, and his subsequent departure from the team, was a mutual decision.

"We were brought in by British American Tobacco to turn the team around and secure its long-term future and that is what we have done," explained Richards. "We have delivered a five-year plan in three years. My job has been done. It's been well done."

"I believe that BAR Honda is now in a very healthy position to continue its pursuit of the world championship," he added.

Richards is leaving despite having a year of his contract still to run, but will remain as head of the team until the end of the year before easing himself out gently by remaining in a consultancy role until February 2005.

There are numerous reports that there were serious concerns over the 'Buttongate' saga, especially within Honda. Button's management used a loophole in the English driver's contract to begin a process that saw the Englishman signing for Williams, before the teams became embroiled in a contract recognition case, with the board finding in favour of BAR.

Richards also has the world rally championship to focus on. As the series' commercial rights holder he plays a crucial role in its success away from the stages.