Eric Boullier with Jenson Button and Jessica MichibataSpeaking in Montreal, McLaren Sporting Director Eric Boullier hinted that the Woking outfit are making plans for the future with Jenson Button.
There are reports circulating, claiming that team supremo Ron Dennis and 2015 engine supplier Honda are making moves to woo Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel or even Lewis Hamilton to McLaren.
But Boullier went into the Montreal weekend offering high praise for 34-year-old Button, the most experienced driver on the Formula 1 grid whose contract runs out at the end of the season.
When asked on Thursday if that praise indicates a new contract is on the table, Button answered: “Er, no. No more progress at all. We both want to work together in the future but it’s just not time yet.”
Boullier agreed with Button that the time for contract talks is yet to arrive, but he also insisted that McLaren want to keep the Briton on board.
“I would love, when it is time, to sit down with him, to carry on with him, clearly, and as long as we can,” the Frenchman told the British broadcaster Sky.
“With Kevin [Magnussen] as well…but I more and more appreciate working with Jenson, it’s true.” Boullier added. (GMM)