Sep.17 (GMM) Jenson Button says the wait on his future is nearing an end, as he rules out a switch to the new Ferrari B-team Haas.
The F1 veteran left Monza recently declaring that, by Singapore, his next move may be known.
Now he is setting a new deadline — the end of September.
Button said on Thursday that his deliberations are “difficult”, and there there is “a lot” to discuss and contemplate.
Boss Eric Boullier doesn’t agree.
“If Jenson wants to drive for us,” he told Auto Motor und Sport, “then in 2016 he will be driving for us.”
The paddock grapevine has two theories: one, that Button is genuinely considering leaving F1 for Le Mans or a broadcasting role.
The other is that Button and McLaren are arguing about money.
What the 35-year-old was clear about in Singapore is that, when it comes to F1, it is McLaren or nothing next year.
“I don’t think there is any point at looking at a smaller, younger start-up programme. To be fair to this team (McLaren), it is very young still in terms of our relationship with Honda and the powerplant itself.
“This will improve a lot over the years,” he added.
Button also said that while comparing himself with teammate Fernando Alonso each weekend is motivating, eventually the novelty will end and the pair will want to “win”.
When asked if his patience is already wearing thin, Spaniard Alonso said on Thursday: “Ony after my three years at McLaren will I know if my decision to come to McLaren-Honda was right.”
Alonso said he at least knows that it was the right choice, in terms of rolling the dice and trying to beat the dominant Mercedes.
“Only the two Mercedes drivers go for the title and everyone else hopes for a miracle. I hope the miracle comes from Japan,” he smiled.