Jenson Button, 34, is at McLaren since 2010 (Mark Thompson / Getty Images / SEE)
Jenson Button will continue driving in Formula 1 in 2016. Contrary to many European newspapers that gave for granted his retirement at the end of this season, the British pilot of 35 years renewed contract with McLaren for another year, on Thursday.
World champion in 2009 by the Brown team, Button had suggested after the Singapore Grand Prix that could announce retirement this weekend's Japanese race because he lacked "joy" on the slopes. At the time, the British complained about the low competitiveness of the car McLaren offered and said "there is only happy to drive in Formula 1 when you are fighting at the front of the grid."
However, recent talks with President of McLaren, Ron Dennis compatriot, convinced the world champion of 2009 to remain in the category. "During the last month or a little more, I thought a lot in many things, and it was no secret that I thought twice about my future," said Button, who has participated in 279 trials and 15 won in the category.
"I am McLaren driver for six seasons and in that time, I got to know Ron well. He and I had some good conversations in recent weeks and during these chats, it became clear to me that Ron is determined and is the only able to lead our team at this stage of difficulties and lead to success in the future. "
In 2015, the year that McLaren resumed its partnership with the supplier of Honda engines, Jenson Button, as well as the companion Fernando Alonso, has suffered from the poor performance of the MP4-30. His best result this season was eighth in Monaco. With six points, it is the 18th place of the World.
(With Gazeta Press)
