Jenson Button will remain a Vodafone McLaren Mercedes for the coming years after the team announced a new multi-year contract.
The announcement revealed no definitive time frame, suggesting that Button could end his career with the champion team.
Outside of winning the 2009 championship, Button has had one of his best seasons this year, currently second in the world title and remains the only driver with a mathematical chance of winning this year’s crown.
The Brit says that he is pleased to have secured his future in the sport.
“I’ve never felt more at home at a team than I do at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes,” he said.
”I’ve won four of the greatest races of my life here, I’m currently lying second in the drivers’ world championship, and I feel that I’m driving better than ever.
“You can only achieve that with the right level of support – and I truly believe that the passion and determination to win are stronger here at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes than anywhere else.
“As a grand prix driver, those are incredibly powerful feelings to share and be part of, and they’ve only reinforced my desire to commit my long-term future to this team.
“I’ve made no secret of my ambition to continue winning races and world championships, and I fully believe this is the place where I can achieve those aims.”
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh says that he is delighted to secure his services into the future.
“Jenson is a great driver and a great guy,” Whitmarsh said.
“In fact, I can safely say that he’s one of the most capable and respected drivers we’ve ever had, and I’m therefore absolutely delighted that he’ll continue to work with us into the future.”
The next round of the F1 world title will be held at Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend.
See below for Speedcafe.com’s Japanese Grand Prix Race Guide
