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Button Glad with Underdog Status at McLaren

With Jenson Button moving to McLaren Mercedes in 2010, one knew this will stir up plenty of negative comments from around the F1 paddock, all directed at the reigning world champion. Most argue that the 29-year old Englishman will not stand a chance ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton next year, while everyone agrees Button will have ten times tougher the year he had in 2009.

The latest criticism came from former Ferrari and Januar racer Eddie Irvine, who told ESPNF1 recently that Button will be “murdered” by Hamilton next season. Known for his quite outspoken attitude towards fellow drivers in F1, Irvine said that Button's history in handling tougher teammates make him the weakest link at McLaren.

In the past, Button was commonly beaten by his teammates, which Irvine suggests is a clear evidence that he cannot be considered an F1 championship material racer.

However, the new McLaren driver seems undisturbed in his preparations for the new season, insisting that all these comments do nothing but ease the pressure of defending his world title. With people giving him few-to-zero chances of beating Hamilton, proving them wrong looks like the only thing to do.

I don't think it's worth looking into too much what people say because nobody knows what the situation is going to be this season. (...) It makes my life a lot easier. I'm in a more relaxed position than if people were telling me I'm going to destroy my teammate,” answered Button in the British media, according to a report from the GMM news agency.

Although part of what is being recognized as the UK Dream Team, Hamilton and Button are yet to cross roads prior to the 2010 season. Both are currently vacationing and will most likely meet at McLaren's 2010 car presentation later this month.
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