“There are a lot of rule changes for next year and that makes it an exciting prospect. I feel positive for next season. Okay, every team says it is going to build a good car but I feel sure that Honda will do just that and put together a very competitive package. I am confident that Ross and the team will do a great job – but a lot depends on what other teams do,” said Button according to the Daily Star.
The Brit ended a single race inside the points this season, scoring a 6th place at Barcelona. He is currently 18th overall in the drivers' standings, 4 places lower than Brazilian teammate and F1 veteran Rubens Barrichello. Nevertheless, despite his podium performance at Silverstone – where he clinched 3rd place in a chaotic race influenced by rain – it is the Brazilian who seems to be ending his deal with Honda after the season's finale at Interlagos.
Linked with a move to North-American championship IndyCar Series – where he's supposed to test a Honda-powered Penske car at Homestead-Miami – Barrichello is likely to be replaced by fellow Brazilian Bruno Senna. Nephew of 3-time world champion Ayrton Senna, the current GP2 Series driver is believed to have strong backing by Brazilian oil manufacturer Petronas for a racing seat in 2009.
Another option for Honda to join Button in the drivers' lineup for the upcoming season would be 2-time world champion Fernando Alonso. However, with Renault upping their game in the last few races and finally providing the Spaniard with a competitive car, it's more than likely that he will choose to continue his stay with the French manufacturer for yet another season.
Alonso recently admitted that he is 99% positive about choosing his future team for 2009 but that he will announce his decision shortly after the Brazilian Grand Prix. Asked if he fears he won't have a racing seat for 2009 with Honda – as he is yet to be officially confirmed for 2009 – Button responded “I’m in no rush. Everything is just fine”.
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