Jenson Button extends with McLaren
Tipped to join Ferrari to replace Felipe Massa in 2013, the British driver will ultimately continue his journey with McLaren, extending his contract for an unknown duration.
The rumor had him going to Ferrari for the 2013 season, but Jenson Button will indeed continue his career with McLaren after the announcement this Wednesday of the extension of the contract linking the 2009 world champion to the Woking team. An extension that remains subject to questions, however, as its duration has not yet been communicated.
Jenson Button obviously showed enthusiasm: « I have never felt as at home in a team as I do with McLaren. I have won four of the best races of my life here, I am currently second in the world championship standings, and I feel that I am driving better than ever ». Before the Suzuka Grand Prix, Button is the last driver behind Sebastian Vettel who can contend for the title, even though he must win all the upcoming races and hope that the Red Bull driver scores no points.
« You can only get there with the right level of support – and I sincerely believe that the passion and determination to win are stronger at McLaren than anywhere else. As a Grand Prix driver, these are incredible feelings to be a part of, and they have strengthened my desire to secure my long-term future with this team. I have made no secret of my ambition to continue winning races and championships, and I truly believe this is the place where I can achieve those goals » added the McLaren driver, without specifying the length of the commitment.
On Martin Whitmarsh’s side, enthusiasm is also present: « Jenson is a great driver and a good guy. In fact, I can certainly say that he is one of the most capable and respected drivers we’ve ever had, and I’m absolutely delighted that he continues to work with us for the future ».
Finally, Lewis Hamilton, teammate of the Frome native for almost two years now, wanted to share his thoughts: « This is great news. Jenson is a fantastic person to work with and an excellent driver for the team since he has been at the wheel. […] Jenson and I are as hungry and ambitious as ever to win races and titles in the future ».
