Jenson Button enters Formula1 as a talented novice, with little racing experience. He was still competing in Karts in 1998 and only moved to British Formula 3 last year. His test for Williams as a potential replacement for Zanardi was a surprise to most, and even more surprising was the 20 year old's performances.

Despite a series of car failures the young Briton could not fail to impress. He was quick and accurate, as well as calm and collected outside the car. By his own admission he has little experience of pit stops or the Formula1 circuits but he has always been quick to learn.

It is a dream come true for Button but, as Zanardi is only too well aware, Williams do not tolerate failure and he must learn fast and produce results soon if he stands a chance of retaining his seat against the might of Juan Pablo Montoya in 2001.