2009 Champion expected to be replaced by Fernando Alonso at McLaren; Briton says money won't influence his next move
Tuesday 25 November 2014 17:43, UK
Jenson Button has hit out at McLaren saying he “just wants to feel wanted and part of the family” adding money will not be an influence in his next career move.
The 2009 World Champion's 15-year stint in F1 is expected to come to an end following the season finale in Abu Dhabi, with Fernando Alonso reportedly taking his seat next year in the biggest deal in F1 history.
As the protracted saga rolls on Button has denied he is chasing one final payday and says wherever he ends up driving in 2015 will be because the team want him, with money "not the issue in any way, shape or form".
"Whether I'm racing here or somewhere else, I will do it because I love it,” Button said.
"Naturally I still want to earn money because I feel I have achieved and I feel I should get paid for what I do in an F1 car or a racing car, and for what I bring to a team. But I'm not a driver that takes the p***, and I will race somewhere even I'm if not getting the big bucks like a few drivers who are out there.
"You should get what you deserve. I feel I bring a lot to a team, not just in terms of results, but in terms of marketing within a team and working with sponsors, and how I can help develop a car.
"You want to feel like you are wanted within a team and part of the family. It's like if your parents were to turn round and say 'You know what, we're not sure if we want you at Christmas this year. But your brother can come, he's great'. You know what I mean.
"You want to feel like you are part of the family, and they want you to be part of the family, and that's more important than cash."
Button has finished ahead of team-mate Kevin Magnussen 14 times to four this season, scoring 106 points – almost double the Dane’s 55. However, it appears this may not be enough and as the world waits on McLaren revealing their 2015 line-up the Briton has thanked the fans for their support.
"To be fair, when I'm on Twitter looking at the fans' messages, I haven't seen a negative comment for quite a long time," added Button.
"There's so much support. It makes you very emotional. I've never seen anything like it.
"It's more than when I won the world championship. They are so supportive and that really does mean a lot."
