McLaren pay tribute to Button

McLaren have released a statement full of praise and plaudits for Jenson Button, with the contract between the constructor team and the 2009 World Champion set to expire following a 2017 season in which he was a reserve driver and ambassador for the British organisation.

Button retired from Formula One in 2016 but remained within the McLaren ranks as a reserve driver and was even called into action for the Monaco Grand Prix this season due to Fernando Alonso taking part in the Indianapolis 500. However, even with this short stint back, he has no plans to continue his F1 career.

Following the successful partnership, McLaren had plenty of positive things to say about Button.

"Jenson has been a brilliant driver and ambassador for us, for Formula 1 and for England as well," said McLaren director Eric Boullier.

"His contract is ending at the end of this year but he will always be part of the McLaren family and always have a special place for us.

"That's life and this is another step and another chapter, with Lando stepping in to the third driver role."

Due to Button's contract ending, McLaren have secured the services of 18-year-old prodigy Lando Norris who will become the reserve driver for the 2018 season. Norris holds a positive developing reputation in the sport and is a previous Formula 3 winner.