McLaren thank Button as duo part ways

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McLaren have paid tribute to a “brilliant driver and ambassador” in Jenson Button as he enters into the final week of his contract with the team.

Button has played the role of reserve driver and ambassador in 2017 after deciding to retire from Formula 1 at the end of the 2016 campaign.

The 2009 World Champion did make a brief comeback covering for Fernando Alonso at the Monaco Grand Prix whilst the Spaniard participated at the Indianapolis 500, but Button has not been tempted to continue any of his Formula 1 duties.

As a result, Lando Norris will become McLaren’s reserve driver next year and the Woking team have placed on record their thanks to the departing 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.”

Button could race in the Super GT series next season on a full-time basis after competing a race in Japan in August.