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Jenson Button is returning to a McLaren cockpit for one race only this weekend as Fernando Alonso skips Monaco in favour of the Indianapolis 500 - but despite enjoying his comeback thus far, the 2009 World Champion says he does not regret his decision to retire from full-time motorsport.
The Briton declined McLaren's invitation to test its MCL32 in Bahrain last month, meaning thatThursday's first practice session in Monte Carlo marked his first runs behind the wheel of the 2017 machine. He displayed good pace throughout the day, ending it as the eleventh-fastest driver, but revealed that he did not miss driving an F1 car despite re-adjusting well to its demands.
"No, I definitely stepped away at the right time," said Button. "I haven't missed driving a Formula One car. But today I have really enjoyed it, more than I have for a couple of years. That's two things probably, because the cars are better to drive and because I haven't driven one for seven months. I enjoyed it. I tapped the barrier a couple of times. It's good to know that I'm pretty much online and pushing the limits, but no damage so far. So that's good as well."
"It was funny when I did the install lap this morning, I had a little giggle to myself as I headed into Mirabeau. It's a lovely experience for me to drive these cars. Have I missed it? I haven't missed it, no. But when you jump in the car you definitely enjoy the moments that you have."
Mason Hawker
Grand Prix of Belgium
C. Sainz jr
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Replies (2)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Im glad he doesnt regret it, but Im sad to see him go. He is one of my alltime favourite racing drivers, and I will certainly be happy to see him race one more time in F1. Really hope we'll get to see him race in another series, and preferably in a competitive Honda or McLaren. ;)
Squirrel10
Posts: 36
Ditto that!