Button convinced Hamilton will return to become "most decorated driver in F1 history"

Jenson Button has no doubt fellow champion Lewis Hamilton will return to F1 this season to become the most decorated driver in the sport's history.

Button was the last person to interview Hamilton immediately after the controversial ending to the final race of last season in Abu Dhabi.

Since then a disillusioned Hamilton has remained silent, fuelling speculation as to whether he will return to partner George Russell at Mercedes or call it a day.

Button, though, is convinced his former McLaren team-mate will not walk away.

Speaking on UK television programme 'Good Morning Britain' Button said: "I do know I was the only person to interview Lewis after the last race.

"I mean, the whole world heard that interview, so I don't have the inside scoop, but I really do hope he'll be racing - I think he will be racing.

"He wants to win that eighth title to be the most decorated F1 driver in history. He will do that. I really do think so."

Regardless of what Hamilton decides, Button feels F1 is riding the crest of a wave at present on the back of a remarkable campaign that went down to the last lap of the final grand prix, even if question marks linger as to how that materialised.

But with the sport ushering in a new era with new aerodynamic regulations this year, the 2009 world champion is looking forward to what he expects to be another thrilling season.

"It was a controversial end to the season, but I think you've got to look at the season as a whole," added Button.

"F1 is in an amazing place, two fantastic drivers going at it every weekend.

"I think everyone's excited about the new season, the new regulations, and it's all about the development of these cars through the year."

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