Jenson Button's protracted move to Williams took another twist today with BAR claiming to have scuppered the Englishman's defection.
Button has signed a contract with Williams for 2005 and 2006 but news of that deal angered BAR boss David Richards, who claimed to also have a deal with the 24-year-old for next year.
The issue appeared to be settled in Button's favour when the Englishman met Richards on Sunday and left pronouncing himself certain to be driving for Williams in 2005.
Richards did not tell his side of the story at the time and it now appears he has not given up the fight.
Throughout the dispute he has remained steadfast in his belief that BAR are the only team to have a legally-binding contract with Button for next season.
That stance has seemingly been vindicated by the sport's contract recognition board, who today confirmed their belief that BAR have a genuine deal with Button for 2005.
The board was set up after Michael Schumacher left Jordan in controversial circumstances for Benetton in 1991 and has the backing of world governing body, the FIA.
Under FIA rules, a driver's super licence - which he must have to compete in Formula One - is only valid if his contract has been lodged with, and approved by, the contract recognition board.
BAR announced the decision today in a statement which read: "The FIA contract recognition board acknowledged in writing that, as of today, the BAR contract with Jenson Button is the only valid contract registered for the 2005 season."
Should the board maintain their stance, Button will either have to drive for BAR next season or sit out the campaign.