- McLaren
Button: McLaren still the preferred option
Jenson Button wants a speedy resolution from McLaren about its 2015 line-up and says his preferred choice is to stay at the team despite recently suggesting he could reject a new deal.
McLaren is set to finalise its line-up at a board meeting at its Woking headquarters, with the choice between the experienced Button or the promising Kevin Magnussen. There are no guarantees the decision will be followed by an immediate announcement as contract terms will need to be finalised with the chosen driver.
Earlier in the year Button suggested he could reject a deal at McLaren next year even if offered one - with a potential switch to the World Endurance Championship rumoured - but his first wish is to extend his 266-race F1 career.
"I want to race for McLaren next year," Button told Sky Sports News on Thursday. "I want to race in Formula One. It's still a question I can't answer. I think for all of our sakes it's better sooner rather than later. If I'm in Formula One next year it's an exciting challenge with the new engine and new era with the team. If I'm not, I've got other exciting challenges that I want to focus on so I wouldn't worry about me. But as I say, it would be nice to know sooner rather than later."
When asked about Fernando Alonso, the man widely expected to have been signed to McLaren's other 2015 seat, Button said he would relish the opportunity to work with the Spaniard.
"It actually hasn't been announced where he's racing yet so I don't want to get ahead of myself yet. But Fernando is an unbelievably talented driver, a very rounded and intelligent driver, which can be dangerous sometimes. He's a guy who would be a massive challenge working with but also racing against - you've got to beat your team-mate. He's one of the guys I've loved to race with over the years."
Button says he is braced for whatever decision McLaren makes about its 2015 line-up.
"I will respect their decision whichever way it goes. I've had a great career in Formula One which I would love to see continue. I've really enjoyed this year, I think we've got a great base for a great future. There's a lot of challenges ahead for the new team with the new package but it's an exciting challenge."
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