The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is to end its backing of the Williams Formula One team at the end of their current agreement, as a result of the economic downturn.

Jenson Button tonight signed a contract to drive for the Williams Formula One team from next season.

RALF SCHUMACHER is confident of retaining his drive with the Williams Formula One team until 2006 once his current deal ends at the end of 2004, the German driver said last night.

IRISH rugby captain Brian O’Driscoll is facing a loss of over €40,000 after a British sports media agency went bust.