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Button linked to McLaren
23 October 2009
Newly-crowned Formula One World champion Jenson Button has been linked with a move to McLaren to complete an all-British line-up alongside Lewis Hamilton.
McLaren are looking for a replacement for Finn Heikki Koveleinan but have so far failed to secure the services of their first choice, former world champion Kimi Raikkonen, leaving the possibility of Button making a switch for 2010.
Jenson Button - a career in pics
Despite securing the 2009 World Championship in Brazil last weekend Button is yet to be offered a new contract by his current team Brawn GP.
It is understood that Brawn are loath to better Button’s current £6 million contract which was lowered from £10 million earlier in the season to ensure the then struggling team’s survival. McLaren, who currently pay Hamilton £15 million, could easily offer Button an improved financial package.
Martin Whitmarsh, McLaren’s Team Principle, refused to comment on the possibility of Button joining his team’s ranks. He said: “We've talked to a number of drivers.
"It wouldn't be appropriate to say more than that. We'll hire the two best drivers available as we always have."
Speaking in a press conference shortly after clinching the world title at Interlagos, Button assured the assembled media that he would not make the move from Brawn GP for financial reasons. He said: "It's not about the money. I want to be with a team that can win.”
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